Frederico Franklin

Manzanares

On May 7, 2021, Frederico Franklin Manzanares, known to friends and family as Fred, passed away peacefully at home, at the age of 87. He was, no doubt, welcomed to the kingdom of God by Glory… and Felix, Snowball, Oscar, Andre, Jacque, and Jeffrey, but probably not Muffin. That cat went straight to hell.

Fred was born on July 11, 1933 in Garcia, Colorado to parents Felipe Manzanares and Cora Garcia. As soon as he was old enough, he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force where he traveled the world, proudly serving for 23 years as a tail gunner and inventory management specialist.

After serving his country in the Air Force, the decorated war veteran served another 35 years in the Small Business Administration. Early in his tenure, he was transferred from Denver, Colorado to Harlingen, TX. Though you've likely never heard his name, through his work, he helped countless Valley businesses to launch and grow into some of our most beloved institutions.

His love for travel never faded. His map hangs on the wall with colorful pins pushed into the farthest corners of the globe. Fred was a slight man, but wherever he went, he rarely went unnoticed. His shoes were always polished to a glossy shine. Sunday's best was all he knew. He loved to laugh. He always had a story to tell. He was always the first one on the dance floor.

Fred was preceded in death by his father, mother, son Phillip, Sister Romaine and the pets he loved so dearly. He is survived by his loving wife, Viola Manzanares, sister Loretta Lachapelle, sons Timothy and Peter, nieces and nephews.

Fred will be buried with military honors at the Fort Logan National Cemetery in Denver, CO. There will be no local services, but all are welcome to celebrate Fred's life by belting out Neil Diamond's greatest hits—especially Sweet Caroline.