MANUEL GODINEZ

1935 - 2024

MANUEL DUENAS GODINEZ

Sept. 19, 1935 – Nov. 26, 2024

Manuel Duenas Godinez, 89, of El Centro, CA, passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by his family on November 26, 2024.

Manuel was born on September 19, 1935, in Alamos Municipio de San Pedro Tlaquepaque, Jalisco, Mexico to Nicolas Godinez Diaz and Maria Felix Duenas. Growing up in the countryside, Manuel often rode horseback, hunted for rabbits, and enjoyed standing on his horse to pick apples from the trees. In 1951, his family moved to Mexicali, Mexico. On November 10, 1961, he married the love of his life, Leticia Chavez Godinez, in Mexicali, Mexico, and in 1964, immigrated to the United States to build a life.

Manuel was the proud co-owner of G&S Autobody, where his skilled craftsmanship and work ethic left a lasting impression. He was a passionate soccer player and a lifelong fan of La Seleccion and Pumas. He also enjoyed watching his San Francisco 49ers. As a survivor of prostate cancer, a stroke, and COVID-19, he was nicknamed Iron Man for his strength and resilience. His family celebrated him by playing his favorite song, El Rey, a tribute to the role he held in their hearts.

He loved listening to music and having a beer, especially at Meno's Cantina (aka his garage), and enjoyed sharing his knowledge of astronomy, geography, and history. Family gatherings were his joy, where he often danced, shared stories, laughter, and love.

Manuel is survived by his five children: Patricia Talamantes, Manuel Godinez, Leticia Godinez-Fraher, Ivonne Miranda, and Erika Morquecho; sons-in-law, Armando Talamantes, Rick Fraher, Julio Miranda, and Raul Jr. Morquecho; and daughter-in-law, Marisela Santana Godinez; along with his 15 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his two siblings, Angela and Victoria Godinez. He leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and beloved friends. He was preceded in death by wife of 63 years, Leticia Chavez Godinez; his parents; and three of his siblings.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, December 13, 2024, at Our Lady of Guadalupe in El Centro, CA. Viewing begins at 8:30 a.m., followed by a Rosary at 10:30 a.m. and Mass at 11 a.m. He will be laid to rest at Evergreen Cemetery in El Centro, CA at a later date in a private

family ceremony.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude for the love and support during this difficult time.