Manuel H. Casares

Manuel was raised on the Westside and attended “the big Kennedy Green”, Kennedy High School, where he played football, basketball, and baseball, graduating in 1968. He voluntarily enlisted after graduation in the U.S. Air Force and served honorably in the Vietnam War.

After returning home, Manuel completed his associate degree in Fire Science at San Antonio College and had a distinguished 30+ year career as a firefighter at both Kelly and Lackland Air Force Base, where he was respected for his leadership, courage, and steadfast service. Throughout these years, he formed deep-rooted friendships that became like extended family to him—bonds that lasted a lifetime.

In 1974, Manuel married the love of his life, Maria. Across their 51 years of marriage, their family grew to include 7 children and 10 cherished grandchildren. Family brought Manuel his greatest joy. He was quick-witted, loved to laugh, and cherished music of all genres and generations. He enjoyed gatherings with family, movies-particularly old westerns, cheering for the Spurs, watching football and baseball games—rooting for Texas teams.

Manuel is preceded in death by his parents, Manuel C. Casares, Sr. (2009) and Concepcion L. Herrera (1993); his brother Juan (1975); and his brothers Roberto and Juan, who passed in infancy.

Manuel is survived by his devoted wife of 51 years, Maria E. Casares, and his 7 children: Carmen Casares-Cernoch (spouse Zak), Norma Zamarripa (spouse Robert), Robert M. Casares (spouse Daisy), Isabel Rios (spouse Mario), John Casares, Andrea Casares-Plascencia (spouse Eric), and Andrew Casares.

He is also survived by his 10 grandchildren: Julie Cernoch, Maddie Cernoch, Seth Zamarripa, Belicia Zamarripa, Maya Zamarripa, Matthew Casares, Emma Casares, Nicholas Casares, Mireya Rios, and Isela Rios.

Manuel is further survived by his brother, Enrique H. Casares, along with extended family, dear friends, and his cherished fire service and veteran communities.

Manuel will be remembered for his generosity, humor, loyalty, and unwavering love for his family. His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched.

A visitation will be held at Funeraria Del Angel Trevino Funeral Home on December 16, 2025, from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm with a Holy Rosary will be recited at 7:00 pm.

The Mass of The Resurrection will take place at Our Lady of Good Counsel Church, 1204 Castroville Rd, San Antonio, TX 78237, on December 17, 2025, at 9:30 am.

Following the mass, the committal service will be held at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery, 1520 Harry Wurzbach Rd, San Antonio, TX 78209, on December 17, 2025, at 11:15 am.

Manuel will be remembered fondly by all who knew him.