Manuel Bustamante

Manuel Bustamante Sr., known to many friends and family as “Manny,” “Nino,” or “Melo,” passed peacefully on the morning of March 1st, 2020, after living with Alzheimer's for many years. He was 75 years old. He was born February 4, 1945 in El Paso, Texas to Lorenzo and Basilia (Gallarza) Bustamante.

Manuel proudly served his country on the USS O’Bannon (1963-1968) which included two tours during the Vietnam War. He married the love of his life, Irene (Vasquez), on Sept 11th, 1965, who preceded him in death by almost exactly 10 years (March 16th, 2010). Manuel and Irene shared a life-changing adventure together in the late 60s, having relocated from El Paso, Texas,to Norwalk, California, and eventually settling in Barstow, California in 1979. Manny was passionate about being involved in the community and spent time as a Boy Scout leader, a Little League coach, and was involved in the Cursillo movement with the Catholic Church. He was a dedicated member of the Teamsters Union during his career with Yellow Freight, where he made many life-long friends.

Manuel is survived by his children, Manuel Jr. (husband Joe) Bustamante, Vincent (wife Andrea) Bustamante, Vivian Wagasky, Olivia Dilbeck, and Robert Bustamante; grandchildren Marcos Bustamante, Damian Wagasky, Cheyenne Bustamante, Micaela Bustamante, Emma (husband Daulton) Smith, Sophia Wagasky, Isabella Bustamante, Benjamin Dilbeck, Maximillian Bustamante, and Sara Dilbeck; sons-in-law Damian Wagasky and Lane Dilbeck; sisters Tere Guardado, Socorro Rosas, and Patricia Cardoza, and many niecesand nephews.

Manuel and Irene will share their final resting place at Riverside National Cemetery.