On Monday, August 16, 2021, loving husband, father, second dad, Tata, Tati, Veteran of World War II, pharmacist, businessman and overall BIG-hearted, kind, and gentle man with a great sense of humor, Manuel Navarro passed unto the Lord after living life for almost 98 glorious years.
“My flesh and my heart faileth, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever” Psalm 73:26 KJV.
Manuel was born and raised in Phoenix, Arizona by his loving and protective Nana Panchita, attending grammar school at Monroe Elementary and a graduate of Phoenix Union High School.
“Uncle Manny”, as he was affectionately called by many throughout his life, went on to serve his country in the Army during World War II. Afterwards he worked hard to earn his Pharmacy Degree from the University of Arizona, graduating in 1955. Manuel lived his working life in service to others as the trusted owner of Nason’s Rexall Drug store in Oxnard, CA for 40 years, until his retirement at age 71. He acted as pharmacist and confidante for legions of loyal customers, whom he treated as extended family.
Manuel was the “life of the party” and was extremely generous with his love. He shared endless “Tata Witticisms” and endearments with family and friends throughout his life. His wife Margie often stated, “He is the love of my life!” They were very special together!
Manuel was preceded in death by his first wife, Dolores, and leaves behind his loving wife, Margie, his sister, Dolores, his brothers Victor and Tony, daughters Carrie Ramirez (Steve), Helen Ihde (Michael), sons Robert (Belinda), Joe (Dana), and Alexander (Laura) along with his Arizona children, Terry Ramos (Pat Tobler) and Joe Ramos (Joan). He also leaves behind 11 grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great-granddaughter, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Please join his loving family for a sunny celebration of his life “God willing, and the creek don’t rise!”
Funeral services will begin on Friday, August 27, 2021, at 9:30 A.M., at St. Theresa Catholic Church, 5045 East Thomas Road, Phoenix. Burial to follow at St. Francis Catholic Cemetery in the Mausoleum, 2033 North 48th Street in Phoenix. In lieu of flowers please donate to Hospice of the Valley, 1501 E. Flower Street, Phoenix, AZ 85014. https://hov.org/
Bring your smiles and happy memories of this amazing man!
Condolences may be expressed at www.whitneymurphyfuneralhome.
Joanne Tillson
To Margie and the entire family,
My Mom says she’s known Manny since high school when he used to walk her and Virginia home from school. Lots of history there
We’re so sorry for your loss,
Sending Love and Prayers for the family
Margaret (Connie) Angulo
Joanne (Angulo Duran) Tillson
Lara Murphy
Dearest Margie, Terry, Joe and family,
Please accept our deepest condolences for the loss of your precious Manny. Your family means the world to us and you will remain in our thoughts and prayers.
Love,
The Louis & Irma Rodriguez family