Manrique Barroso Jr.

Manrique Barroso Jr., affectionately known as Hank or Henry, passed away on October 14, 2024, just days shy of his 80th birthday. Born on October 18, 1944, in Tampa, Florida, he spent his entire life in the city he loved.

Manrique dedicated 23 years to the United States Air Force, achieving the rank of Chief Master Sergeant and earning numerous accolades, including the Presidential Unit Citation and the Commendation Medal. His career continued at Lockheed Martin and Northrop, where he worked on aircraft and made significant contributions to aviation safety. Manrique later served as a Transportation Security Officer at Tampa International Airport and spent his final years as a Hub Driver for Auto Zone, embracing the automotive industry with passion.

A true family man, Manrique adored his wife, Judy, and cherished time spent with his blended family of eight children: Debbie, Christine, Mary Katherine, April, Rhonda, DebiLynn, Pamela, and Jay. He was a proud grandfather to 14 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren, sharing his love and joy with each of them. His warmth and humor were contagious; he often delighted his grandkids by singing cheerful tunes like "Lollipop" and "That's Amore!".

Manrique had a deep love for cars and motorcycles, enjoying the thrill of cruising and tinkering with engines. As a devoted foodie, he savored Deviled Crabs, juicy hamburgers, and Cuban sandwiches, with a particular fondness for Maple Bourbon Spicy Pickles, which he enthusiastically recommended to all.

With a heart of gold and a penchant for laughter, Manrique was known for his kindness and willingness to help anyone in need. His legacy will live on in the hearts of his family and friends, who will remember him for his joyful spirit and unwavering love. He will be greatly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A visitation for Manrique will be held Sunday, October 27, 2024 from 12:30 PM to 1:00 PM at Blount&Curry Funeral Home @ Garden of Memories, 4207 E LAKE AVE, TAMPA, FL 33610. A funeral service will occur Sunday, October 27, 2024 from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM, 4207 E LAKE AVE, TAMPA, FL 33610. A committal service will occur Monday, October 28, 2024 from 12:30 PM to 1:00 PM at Florida National Cemetery, 6502 SW 102nd Ave, Bushnell, FL 33513.