Manuel De La Rosa Jr.

He was 71 years old. Born on April 30, 1955, in Raymondville, Texas, Manuel made his home in Grass Lake, Michigan, where he built a life for his family in the country and dedicated nearly 30 years of service to Ford Motor Company. Three years ago, he and his wife made their way to Corpus Christi, Texas, where he was able to embrace a well-earned retirement and enjoy the fullness of a life defined by devotion — to his God, his family, and his church community.

Manuel was an active and dedicated member of Most Precious Blood Catholic Church in Corpus Christi, where his servant's heart and steadfast faith were known and cherished by all who worked and worshipped alongside him. Whether he was volunteering his time, offering a helping hand, or simply showing up with a warm smile to be with his brother Knights, his commitment to serving others left a lasting impression on everyone he met.

Above all else, Manuel was a dedicated family man in every sense of the word. He poured himself into his marriage, his children, and his grandchildren with a love that was steady, sacrificial, and unconditional. He was the kind of father who showed up — not just for the milestones, but for the everyday moments that quietly shape a person's life. His children knew without question that they were his pride and joy, and his grandchildren — Mateo, Mia, and Amaya — brought out a tenderness and delight in him that was something truly special to witness. Being a "family man" was not just a title; it was his greatest calling, and he embraced it with his whole heart. In his spare time, Manuel treasured hitting the open road on his motorcycle alongside his beloved wife, Samantha — a shared adventure that reflected the bond and free spirit that defined their life together.

Manuel is survived by his beloved wife, Samantha De La Rosa; his children, Anthony De La Rosa, Melissa De La Rosa Rodriguez, and Salina De La Rosa; his cherished grandchildren, Mateo Rodriguez, Mia Dillard, and Amaya Dillard; and his sisters, Diana Janowiak and Debbie Fuelling. He was preceded in death by his father, Manuel De La Rosa Sr., and his mother, Lucy De La Rosa.

Manuel De La Rosa Jr. lived with purpose, gave of himself without reservation, and loved without limit. His memory will forever live in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him.

"Well done, My good and faithful servant."

A rosary will be taking place at Most Precious Blood Catholic Church on Friday August 7th, 2026 at 12:00pm with a funeral mass to follow. A committal service will take place immediately after mass at 2:00pm at Memory Gardens Cemetery.