Manuel Esteban "Mula" Gonzales

Manuel was born at the family home in Yuma, Arizona on Saturday, August 3, 1935, to Francisca and Porfirio Gonzales. Manuel was the second oldest of seven children. Growing up alongside his older sister Mary Gonzales and younger brothers Phillip Gonzales, Raul Gonzales, George Gonzales, Leonard Gonzales, and Ruben Gonzales. Manuel became a resident of Fresno, CA in the 1960’s where his family continued to grow. Manuel and his former wife Irene Gonzales raised six children: Manuel Jr. Gonzales, Eddie Gonzales, Michael Gonzales, Ralph Garcia, Terry Gonzales and Robert Tommy Garcia.

Manuel is survived by numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents Francisca and Porfirio Gonzales, brothers Philip Gonzales and Leonard Gonzales, sister Mary Delcid, former wife Irene Gonzales, and eldest son Manuel Jr. Gonzales.

Manuel was a proud dedicated father who worked hard to build a secure stable life for his family. A man of immense work ethic, quiet strength, integrity, relentless drive, who dedicated his life to supporting a large household, ensuring every child was provided for, loved, and guided. Manuel was a retired cook with an enormous appetite for great food. He was deeply loved by so many.

Visitation will be held at Whitehurst Sullivan Burns & Blair Funeral Home, 836 E. Nees Ave., Fresno, CA 93720, US, on November 11, 2026, from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm, with the Rosary at 6:00 pm.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Mary's Catholic Church, 4636 W Dakota Ave, Fresno, CA 93722, US, on November 12, 2026, at 10:00 am.

Committal Service Following the Funeral Mass will take place at St. Peter's Catholic Cemetery, 264 N Blythe Ave, Fresno, CA 93706.

All who knew and loved Manuel are more than welcome to come celebrate his long and well-lived life.