MANFRED SPEIER

Manfred (Fred) Speier
91, enjoyed a full and joyous life before passing away on September 3rd, surrounded by his adoring family. Loving husband for almost 60 years of the late Nancy Speier; devoted father of Jackie Speier and Barry Dennis and Eric and Laurel Speier; engaging grandfather of Jackson, Stephanie, Erica, and Katie and great-grandfather of Sarah Swanson.
Fred was a proud naturalized American citizen who came to the United States from Germany and never looked back. At the age of 15 he saw the movie "San Francisco" with Clarke Gable and decided then and there he would make his home in the City by the Bay. He had a profound work ethic and boasted that he had landed a job within two hours of arriving in the City as a newcomer. He worked as a nurse, a short order cook at Foster's, a driver for Loomis Armored Car and a manager for Stewart Sandwiches. In later years he assisted his wife Nancy as she taught adult education upholstery for over 40 years in San Mateo County. Fred was a man of strength- in his convictions, his principles and his opinions. He loved to talk and regaled his family and friends with colorful stories of his life, some of which were probably embellished.
He was sharp to the end, staying up on current events as a devoted listener of KGO and avid watcher of CNN. He enjoyed his final years at Sterling Court where he loved the residents and staff, especially chef Denis Simon. Caregivers Hilda Cruz and Kathy Paulsen comforted him in his final days. As an immigrant, his passion and love for this country is poignantly depicted by his final wish - to be buried in a simple pine box draped by the American Flag.
Friends are invited to attend a Celebration of his Life with a Funeral Mass on Saturday, September 8th at 10:00am at St. Bartholomew Church, 300 Alameda de las Pulgas, San Mateo. Donations in his memory may be made to the Peninsula Humane Society or Community Gatepath of Redwood City.