Obituary of Manuel Patrick Souza

Resident of Capitola

Friends and family will gather on Wednesday, August 1st to say farewell to a loving son, husband, brother, and devoted grandfather, Manny Souza who passed away at Dominican Hospital this past week following a lengthy illness.  His beloved family was at his bedside when he passed.  Manny was born in Shanghai, China and then moved with his family as child to Sao Paulo, Brazil where he lived for 14 years.  His family moved to California in 1965, settling in the Santa Clara Valley where he and his loving wife Gloria resided for over 30 years.  Manny and Gloria ultimately moved to Capitola in 2013, and attended St. Joseph’s Catholic Church.

His family will forever cherish many memories of his sense of humor, and his artful ability to tell a story or deliver joke with such veracity that his audience was left to wonder if the story was true or not a joke at all.

Manny worked in the offset printing business as a stripper, with a career that spanned over 40 years in the Santa Clara Valley. He enjoyed opening conversations and receiving the amusing looks when asked what he did for a living. 

He had a passion for soccer and played in Bay Area leagues for more than 30 years.  He treasured the lifelong friendships and the camaraderie.                       

Notwithstanding pain and failing health, Manny regularly played soccer and tennis up until 5 years ago. He was also an accomplished table tennis player, guitarist, and knowledgeable fan of everything Beatles.  

He is survived by his wife Gloria Souza; his mother, Evelyn Nyland; his daughter and son-in-law, Andrea and J.J. Galindo; his son and daughter-in-law, Anthony and Shelly Cowell; his sister; Jackie Gutierrez; brothers; Michael Souza, Paul Souza, Jessy Souza and Peter Souza.  Manny also leaves his adoring grandchildren; Christopher, Steven, Daniel, Ryan, Adrian, Maya, and Isaiah.

A memorial ceremony will take place on Wednesday August 1, 2018 at Benito and Azzaro Pacific Gardens Chapel beginning at 1 p.m. Any kind acts of charity can be made in his memory to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital.