Manuel Elias

Manuel Elias

February 20, 1941 - November 14, 2025

Manuel Elias, beloved husband, devoted father and father-in-law, and cherished grandfather, passed away peacefully on November 14, 2025, after a courageous battle with lung cancer. He was 84 years old. Born in Argeriz, Portugal, Manuel's life was defined by courage, adventure, and an unwavering sense of purpose. At just 17, he left his hometown to serve in the Portuguese Army in Angola, Africa, embracing the challenges of a distant land far from home. After years of dedicated service, he pursued his dream of becoming an officer, earning a well-deserved seven-month leave after a decade of commitment in Angola. It was during this break that fate brought him back to his beloved Portugal-and into the life of Maria Olivia, the love of his life. They married on December 14, 1969, and shared 56 years of unconditional love, laughter, and partnership. After marrying Maria Olivia, Manuel and Olivia moved to the United States, where he worked tirelessly to learn the language, adapt to a new culture, and build a life in another foreign land. Through dedication and perseverance, he became a U.S. citizen and embraced his new country with the same pride, respect, and love that he had always carried for his native Portugal. Manuel was a storyteller at heart, proud of his journey, and eager to share it with everyone he met. He carried the values of hard work, resilience, and integrity throughout his life-whether serving in the Portuguese Army under Salazar during the Angolan War, raising his family, or cherishing moments with his grandchildren. He was the loving father of Luciano (Deborah) and Isabel (Miguel), and the adoring grandfather of Sofia (21), Christian (19), and Alexander (15), who brought him endless pride and joy. His family was the center of his life, and he treasured every moment spent with them. Manuel is also survived by a large, close-knit, and loving extended family in Portugal, who will always remember him for his warmth, generosity, and the laughter he brought into their lives." His final resting place will be in Portugal, among the land and people he loved most. Manuel Elias leaves behind a legacy of courage, devotion, and an inspiring life story-a story he proudly lived and generously shared with all who were fortunate enough to know him.