Manuel S. Padilla

Manuel Padilla, greatly loved husband, father, brother, grandfather, and great grandfather passed away Sunday, June 26, 2016 at his home in Tucson surrounded by loved ones. At the age of 86, Manuel lived a full and rich life. His kindness, strength, witty humor, service and love, live on in the memories and actions of those he has left behind. He was a great mentor, teacher, father, and husband.

His love of the country and western lifestyle started early with his birth in Sahuarita, AZ on April 9, 1930 as the eldest of 7 children. He worked briefly as a farmworker and miner before serving his country in the Korean War as an enlisted Airman. He married his wife and best friend Olga Esther Padilla in 1956. He built a career around repairing automobiles and passed down his love and unmatched skills for renovating and fixing vehicles to his two sons. When he wasn’t working hard or fixing something he could be found watching classic western movies and shows or being the family comedian.

Manuel is survived by his wife of 60 years Olga Esther Padilla, sister Carmen Duarte (Enrique Duarte), children Eleanor L. (Rey Leon), Melba Padilla, Guadalupe Garza (Fred Garza), Mary Harris (Alex Harris), Manuel Padilla Jr. (Patricia Padilla) and Pedro Padilla (Maria Padilla), 17 grandchildren, and 17 great grandchildren.

The arrangements and services are under the direction of Funeraria Del Angel South Lawn, 5401 S. Park Avenue Tucson, AZ 85706. The visitation will be from 7am-9:30am, Recitation of the Rosary begins promptly at 9:30am, Funeral Service 10am, Interment 11:30am.

Thank you for the outpouring of love, support, strength and kind words from all friends and family throughout this very difficult journey home for Manuel. Arrangements under the care of Funeraria Del Angel South Lawn.