David Manzanares

Dave was born at home to Eva (Chavez) and Ralph Manzanares on March 27, 1953, in Pueblo, Colorado. Dave graduated from East High School in 1971 and then attended Colorado State University of Pueblo. He and Kathleen (Lucero) were married in Denver, Colorado in 1972 and at the time of his passing they had just celebrated their 52nd wedding anniversary. They spent a lifetime listening to music, traveling, and creating a garden that flourished, all while enjoying their family and friends. 

Dave worked very hard to provide for his family and began a distinguished career in the pharmaceutical industry in 1972. He worked for the same company for 46 years and retired in 2017. Everyone benefited from his hard work as he was extremely generous, always slipping you some cash as you left his home or any event he attended.

Dave had many circles of friends, where he was beloved for his quick wit and many laughs. From his group that had been hunting together for 60 years, to his fishing buddies, his car show friends, his basketball team, and his neighbors, his social calendar was booked. But his favorite pursuit was spending time with Kathy and their friends for the last 50 years: Connie and Jerome Blazon.

One of his greatest joys was fly fishing. He tied his own flies knowing the names of each one and which fish would be lured by them. His fishing adventures took him to New York, Canada, and Alaska, as well as every lake and river from Colorado to Wyoming.

Dave was kind and generous. He loved his God, and expressed his newfound peace with friends and family in his last years. He aged gracefully and everyone loved his movie star hair. All of us who loved him will forever recall how important he made each of us feel. We’ll remember so many things about him- his jokes, his love of music, and especially his immaculately clean cars.

Dave passed away in his home surrounded by his family and loving wife. He was predeceased by his parents, mother-in-law Helen Maestas and siblings Fred, Mose, Richard and Yolanda. His legacy lives on in his wife, Kathleen; his children, Krisha (Tim), Ralph (Brandi), and David; his grandchildren, Dominic, Karissa, Jorge, Martin, Amaiah, Noah, Valerie and Jolene; great grandchildren, Alani, Cannon, Rhea, Zayla and LaVaiyaa. He is also survived by his sisters Lucy Aragon, Darlene Abeyta and Mary Martinez and many wonderful nieces and nephews. Dave will be deeply missed by everyone in his life.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, September 28th, 11:00 at Horan and McConaty funeral home. We will continue celebrating his life at the Westminster Recreation Center. All are welcome…he’s going to be bummed that he missed it!