Manuel Rojas

RAMON MANUEL ROJAS April 4, 1933 - February 12, 2013 Better known as Manuel Rojas, 79, of Los Angeles, California, passed away after a long and courageous battle with Cancer at White Memorial Hospital in his hometown of Boyle Heights. Manuel lived his life in the Chinatown, Lincoln Heights, Cypress Park, City Terrace and Boyle Heights area. He was one of 7 siblings, children of Salvador and Rebeca Rojas. Manuel loved boxing all his life and practiced boxing as a youth. He attended Abraham Lincoln High School and later joined the US Army. While in the Army he was stationed in Okinawa and served in the Korean War. After his Honorable Discharge from the Army he worked in his Parents' restaurant which he eventually took over after the passing of his father and later his mother. He worked in his restaurant, El Tepeyac Cafe (also in his hometown of Boyle Heights), even after being diagnosed and receiving treatment for cancer. He welcomed everyone who entered his restaurant with fondness and a great warm smile. He treated all alike making everyone feel like part of his family. Manuel was known in the neighborhood as a generous giving person and gave to all. Even though his food has gain worldwide fame he always remained humble and well grounded. Besides working and helping the community Manuel enjoyed a great boxing match or a great horse race which was his pastime as well as being a mentor to hundredths who deemed him a prominent resource. Manuel was a great friend, Grandfather, Godfather, Brother, Uncle, and an outstanding Father. Manuel is survived by his siblings, Dolores, Dora and Rodolfo Rojas; Children Elena and Mark Rojas, Manuel and Stephany Gallegos, Monique and Richard Lopez; 15 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren who will miss him deeply.

Funeral arrangements being made by Felipe Bagues Mortuary; Rosary will be held Monday, February 25, 2013, 6pm-10pm, at Assumption Church (across from El Tepeyac restaurant)812 N. Evergreen Ave., Los Angeles, 90033. Services will be held Tuesday, February 26, 2013, 9am-10:30, at Calvary Chapel, 931 S. Maple Avenue, Montebello, 90640. Interment will follow at Calvary Cemetery, 4201 Whittier Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90023. In lieu of Flowers the Rojas family asks that a donation be made to either the Salesian Boys and Girls Club (323)263-7519; Boys and Girls Clubs of America: (404)487-5700; Saint Jude's Hospital: (800)805-5856; Or Inner City Games: www.weareinnercitygames.org in Memory of Manuel Rojas El Tepeyac Cafe.