Manuel A Colon

Manuel Angel Colón, lovingly known as "Manny" or "Meño," passed away on June 21, 2026, at the age of 61. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, music, service, and unwavering dedication to his family and community.

Born on August 16, 1964, in Waukesha, Wisconsin, to Carmen Aida Falcon-Guzman and Fermin Colón. Manuel was raised in the beautiful town Aguadilla, Puerto Rico, after moving there at the age of three. Aguadilla was where his love for the ocean began, and Crash Boat Beach remained one of his favorite places throughout his life. The memories he made there, stayed with him wherever he went.

At the age of 21, Manuel moved to New York City, where he built a life defined by hard work, friendship, and family. He had a natural ability to connect with people and leave a lasting impression. His charisma, sense of humor, and larger-than-life personality made him known and loved by many. Whether you knew him for a few minutes or a lifetime, Manny had a way of making you feel like family.

Family was at the center of everything Manuel did. Survived by his loving wife Irene (Taveras) Colon, sister, Beatriz Colón-Cintrón. He was a devoted father to his beloved twin daughters, Samantha (Colón) Salvador and Stephanie (Colón) Ferraro, his son, Angel Colón, and Stepchildren. His children were his pride and joy, and nothing made him happier than seeing them succeed and grow.

One of Manuel's greatest joys was being a grandfather. He cherished every moment spent with his grandchildren, Joseph Ferraro, Valentina Salvador, Sienna Ferraro and Angelina Ferraro. He is also survived by the beloved Colón grandchildren.

Those who knew Manny knew how much he loved life. He never missed an opportunity to celebrate, gather with family and friends, or enjoy a game of dominos. Salsa music was the soundtrack of his life. He could often be found playing the saxophone, congas, or any instrument he could get his hands on. He loved scuba diving, riding his motorcycle, and embracing every adventure that came his way.

Throughout his life, Manuel dedicated himself to serving others. He proudly served as a New York City Auxiliary Police Officer before beginning a transportation career that spanned more than two decades as a Bus Operator. He worked for Martz Trailways at the New York Port Authority before devoting himself to the work he valued most through ATU Local 820. There, he continued his service as a Bus Operator while earning the trust and respect of his peers, eventually serving as Financial Secretary, Delegate to the New Jersey State Council, Delegate to the ATU International Convention, and Delegate to the AFL-CIO of New Jersey. His commitment, leadership, and passion for helping others earned him the respect and admiration of all who worked alongside him.

Manuel's life was defined by his generosity, loyalty, resilience, and love for the people around him. He had a gift for bringing people together, filling every room with laughter, music, and unforgettable memories. Though he will be deeply missed, his spirit lives on in the family he cherished, the friendships he nurtured, and the countless lives he touched.

Forever loved, forever remembered, and forever missed.

Visitation will be held at KROWICKI MCCRACKEN FUNERAL HOME, 2124 East Saint Georges Ave, Linden, on Wednesday, July 1, 2026, from 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm.

Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend a funeral on Thursday, July 2, 2026, 9:00 am at the funeral home. Funeral service will be held at 9:30 am, followed by interment at Old Tennent Cemetery in Manalapan.

May Manuel rest in peace.