Manuel Silva Andrade Jr

Manuel Silva Andrade Jr passed away at home with loved ones by his side on September 22, 2025. Manuel was born in Long Beach California on October 10, 1939, to Manuel and Francess Andrade. He was 5th born child of 8. He grew up in Southern California where he enjoyed the area before it became a big city. Manuels family owned a restaurant on Terminal Island before it closed. He graduated from Sierra High Catholic Boy School.
The day after he graduated high school he loaded up his pickup and started his journey in life. He had no destination just knew he wanted to travel and see more of California. In his early 20s he decided to make a trip to Sequoia Natl Park to visit the park which he came to with his family in his younger years. As he was getting acquainted with the town he met the love of his life Mary Andrade at a square dance at the Ash Mtn Rec Hall. They started a family shortly after marrying on June 17, 1961. They had two children, Christine (Cary) and Tim Andrade.
Manuel was always known for his hard work and dedication. He worked for many families in town. He was apart of building the Three Rivers Golf course. After that was built he joined the union where he built many overpasses and bridges in California. As many heard his stories of his time working in Oregon and Washington running planting crews in the forest after the land had been logged. As life went on Three Rivers was calling Manuel home, as he came home to be with his family he started his business which is what he is known for across the valley. Rocks by God placed by Manuel, he hired many day laborers threw out his career which in return they started their career from the experience they got from Manuel.
Manuel and Mary were dedicated members of their community, they together were 4H leaders, hosted many foreign exchange students threw YFU and members of the Three Rivers Lions Club. Manuel was a member of the club for over 50 years. He served as a President, board member, scholarship committee, ground, and his most known role as Pig Scramble leader during the yearly Team Roping event.
Manuel always told people he never retired he just started slowing down and enjoying life. As he started slowing down, he dedicated his free time to more projects. One of which was with Mary, at District 4A2 Bearskin Meadows project. He led many outdoor projects that campers and families will be able to enjoy for many years to come. He also was a member of SASS where he became a site steward for a local site. He taught everyone about the Yokuts tribe and their ways of living off the land.
Many will say that Manuel always had a story to tell and he never knew a stranger. His family will cherish all the memories and stories. His greatest one is yet to be wrote.
Manuel is survived by his son Tim(Sherri), stepson David Townsend(Gina
), grandchildren Laurabelle Rice( Sean), Emily and Zach Andrade, and great grandchildren Kort and Porter Rice also his dog Lady. Siblings Alvina, Sue, Margret and brother Nick. He is proceeding in death by his parents Manuel and Francess Andrade, wife Mary Andrade, daughter Christine Cary and siblings Micheal , Frank, Johnnie.