Manuel Antunes

Manuel Antunes

November 1, 1945 – August 10, 2025

Manuel is survived by his three children: David Antunes, Paul Reyes, and Nicole Nevarez; six grandchildren: Shante' Reyes, Lalo Nevarez III, Xochitl Nevarez, Quenna Lowe, Jessica Antunes, and Sabrina Antunes; and seven great-grandchildren: Cisco, Marcos, Alazay, Izan, Zephi Nova, Aaidyn, and Ca'Leni. He also leaves behind his beloved dog, Tia, and three cats. Born in Torrington WY to Jesse Antunes and Maria Rodriguez. Manuel became a hard-workingman starting first by helping to harvest hops on local farms in the Yakima Valley area. He then moved to Seattle, where he became a talented cook specializing in Mexican food at his family's restaurants. Later, he transitioned to late night hours as a baker for a well-known bakery. Eventually, he combined his love for plants, flowers, and his natural green thumb by becoming a skilled landscaper. He had a knack for doing things well.

He loved riding his bike, and exploring the city. He had a passion for Cadillacs, was devoted to the Raiders (with a soft spot for the Seahawks), and always had pets by his side. As he grew older, you could find Manuel sitting outside, enjoying the sun, sipping a cold beer and listening to his favorite music.

Manuel had a nurturing heart, especially for children, and kept a close eye on his kids-always making sure his adult sons David and Paul were doing well. His daughter Nicole was always by her dad's side.

Nicole has fond memories of her dad like when she was young and they would take morning walks to Albertson's to buy fresh donuts - Manuel loved a good apple fritter. As she grew older, he would teach her the importance of always having a car and keeping up with it. Even with little, he always found ways to help her family - that was important to him.

Manuel's sweet tooth was legendary, and even while living with diabetes he would often joke with his endocrinologist about eating "a bunch of cake and ice cream." Yes, he was stubborn and many times impatient - yet he was full of humor and witty sarcasm.

His son Paul remembers riding around in his dad's custom 1977 orange Dodge street van -complete with a bubble window. The inside of the van was so nice that they would pretend it was a fort. Paul also remembers his dad teaching him to ride a bike in 1975-a love for cycling that never faded for either of them.

Manuel was also known for having pride, especially when it came to his appearance - He dressed to impress! In fact, if there was one word to describe him it would be, "Cool" - Manuel was one cool guy. He gave the best nicknames for those close to him. His great nephew Junior remembers trips to the store with him and Shante' to get the latest and greatest snacks.

A family friend recalls how when she was in high school she was nervous about a demonstration assignment. Manuel helped her by showing her how to make his famous salsa served with chips, and she got an A plus! Other family members recall that he was a great basketball player, made the best chocolate chip pancakes and loved to listen to the song "Rise" by Herb Alpert.

Manuel truly loved to make people laugh and he will be deeply missed. His family will hold their memories of him close to their hearts.