Born on November 22, 1947, in Fresno, California, to Elvira and Manuel Cordova, Manuel was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and brother. He was known for his caring nature, dependability, and joyful spirit. Manuel found happiness in working in his yard, attending San Francisco 49ers football games with his brother Richard, and spending cherished time with his grandchildren.
Manuel proudly served his country as a veteran of the United States Air Force. He was drafted in 1966 and honorably served until returning home in 1970. Following his military service, he pursued higher education at Fresno City College, receiving his AA Degree before transferring to Fresno State. Manuel dedicated 40 years of service to Smart & Final, where he was well known and respected by his co-workers and the community he served.
He was a loving and caring husband to Barbara Ellen Cordova for 55 years and a devoted father to Andrea Marie Aguilera and Nichole Denise Olivares. Manuel’s greatest joy was his family, especially his grandchildren, Joseph Javier Aguilera and Vanessa Grace Aguilera.
Manuel was preceded in death by his parents Elvira and Manuel Cordova and siblings; Atremia Renteria, Imelda Pantoja, Rosie Delfine, Jesse Cordova, Adolf Cordova, Margret Rodriguez, and Johnny Cordova. He is survived by his beloved wife Barbara; his daughter Andrea and spouse Javier Aguilera, daughter Nichole and spouse Frank Olivares; his grandchildren Joseph and Vanessa; and siblings; Oscar Cordova, Art Cordova, Lupe Cordova, Vera Sterling, Minerva Rowe, Mary Bennett, Richard Cordova, and Juanita Cordova-Wang.
Manuel will be deeply missed and forever remembered for his love, dedication, and warm spirit.
A Visitation will be held at Lisle Funeral Home, located at 1605 L Street, in Fresno, CA., on December 22, 2025, at 12:00pm. A Funeral Mass will be held on December 23, 2025, at 9:00 am at St. John's Cathedral, located at 2814 Mariposa St., in Fresno, CA. Interment will take place directly to follow at Fresno Memorial Gardens, 175 S Cornelia Ave., in Fresno, CA.
