Manuel R. Pineda

Manuel Rivera Pineda, 95, of Mesquite, TX passed away at Baylor Medical Center on Monday, May 4, 2015 from complications following surgery. Manuel was born in Phoenix, AZ on April 27, 1920 to Emilio and Dolores Rivera Pineda. He served in the United States Army from September 1941 until November 1945. His tour included six months in the Pacific Theater during the last months of the war. He was honorably discharged on November 15, 1945 as a Tech Sergeant.

Manuel was married to Mildred Pauline Downing from 1945 until 1968. This marriage produced eight children, all of whom survive him: Paul Pineda, Michael Pineda (Michele), Janice Pineda Foster (Tony), Linda Pineda Porterfield, Anita Pineda McClary (Chuck), Gary Pineda (Stacy), Karen Pineda Mitchell and Ricky Pineda (Kathy). He is also survived by three children from Mildreds’ marriage to the late Verlon Phillips: Joann Phillips Short, Donald Phillips and Shirley Phillips Lee.

Manuel was married to Line Toba from 1970 until her death in 2008. He is survived by her children Jorge Cantu, Abner Cantu, Gladys Mosqueda, Astrid Avila, Elaine Aguilar, Kathy Cullum and Evelyn Ramos. He is also survived by 36 grandchildren and many great-grandchildren.

Manuel is also survived by brother Albino Pineda of Santa Paula, CA and several nieces and nephews.

Manuel was an accomplished chef. He worked at the Greater Dallas Club in Downtown Dallas, Preston Hollow Country Club and 21 Turtle Club. After retirement, he worked part time at Eastern Hills Country Club in Garland. He was a hard worker who rarely missed work. His work ethic was an inspiration to anyone who knew him, but especially his children.

Manuel was a father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend. He touched many lives and will be greatly missed by all who knew him.