Manuel Lozano, Sr.

Manuel E. Lozano Sr., born on Oct. 21, 1932, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother and veteran, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Aug. 22, 2024, at the age of 91. Manuel’s character - replete with honesty, fairness, integrity, compassion and respect - shaped the lives of his children. He led a life marked by dedication, service and love. 

Manuel proudly served in the U.S. Marine Corps during the Korean War, three years he held with great honor. His time in the military instilled a strong work ethic and a deep sense of duty, traits he carried with him throughout his life.

After his service, Manuel found his calling as a barber, a profession he pursued with passion for almost six decades. Known for his meticulous attention to detail and warm, friendly demeanor, he became a cherished figure at the local barbershop and in the community.

Manuel eventually branched out and worked at GTE on the weekdays while cutting hair on the weekends. He bounced around departments at GTE, but working on the buried crew was his favorite. Upon Manuel’s retirement at GTE, his coworkers gifted him a sharpshooter shovel. It had always been his tool of choice - and according to his coworkers, nobody slung the sharpshooter like Manuel. 

In 1957, Manuel became a father to Liz. Five years later, his son Michael was born. Manuel’s first marriage wasn’t meant to be and on April 16, 1966, he married the love of his life, Virginia, and became a father once again to 5-year-old Dolores. Together, Manuel and Virginia had three children, Lynne, Julie and Manuel Jr. Manuel said his children were his greatest accomplishment, and they reflected the values instilled by his father. Manuel's love for his family was evident in his involvement in their lives, whether taking them horseback riding or cheering for them at sporting events.

Known for his infectious laughter, often accompanied by clapping hands and stomping feet, Manuel possessed a genuine interest in people, never meeting a stranger. He could often be found bringing in the neighbor's trash cans or mowing their lawns, embodying the spirit of community service.

A member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars and a devoted Catholic church volunteer, he lived a life full of faith and service to others. Manuel’s tenacious spirit and determination to fight for what he cared about will echo for an eternity. 

Manuel is survived by his loving wife, Virginia, his daughter Liz Stroud and her husband Vic, Dolores Roblez and her husband Daniel, Michael Lozano and his wife Jane, Lynne Hersom and her husband Jeff, Julie Brooks and her husband Jason, and Manuel Lozano Jr. and his wife Christina. Manuel’s children,11 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren will carry on his legacy of love and resilience. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

May he rest in peace.