He was born on September 10, 1950, in El Paso, Texas and was raised in East L.A. He graduated from West Coast University in Los Angeles, CA and received a Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering. Manuel was an accomplished musician, trumpet player, private pilot, and an aerospace mechanical engineer. He worked in the aerospace, defense, energy, and homeland security industries. His career spanned many employers, including NASA, Rockwell, Boeing, McDonnell Douglas, Raytheon, Lawrence Livermore Labs, and Varex. His greatest accomplishment in life was his family. He was married to Rosario Estela Reta for 50 years. They raised three children and were blessed with two grandchildren. Prior to moving back to El Paso he lived in Las Vegas, NV for 14 years alongside his wife Estela and daughter, Myra. There he continued to follow his passion for music attending performances by several of his favorite artists, including Santana, Stevie Wonder and Arturo Sandoval. He is survived by his daughters, Myra P. Reta and Miriam Reta Hall, his son, Manuel Reta III, along with two grandchildren and his siblings: Laura R. Ureña, Louis Reta, Mario Reta, Louisa Irigoyen, Alfonso Reta, and Armando Espinosa.
Funeral arrangements will be held at Martin Funeral Home West, 128. N Resler Dr, El Paso, Texas 79912, on Wednesday August 21st. Visitation for Manuel will be from 12:00-3:00pm, Rosary from 3:00-4:00pm, and Service at 6:00pm.
To leave an online condolence to the family, please visit our website at www.martinfuneralhomewest.com.
