Obituary of Russell Joseph Manor

A memorial mass is being planned in Santa Cruz for Russell Manor who passed away peacefully on April 25, at his Santa Cruz home following a lengthy battle with pulmonary complications. Born in Beekmantown, New York, he was 77 years old. Mr. Manor served his country in the US Army as a medic during the Korean Conflict. He moved to Santa Cruz in 1959 with his wife, and for more than 39 years, was employed with RMC Lonestar Cement Plant, working his way up the ladder from driller /powderman in the limestone quarry, to the instrument repair foreman. Mr. Manor and his wife Mary, were members of the Italian Catholic Federation for more than 30 years and he leaves many dear friends and colleagues who worked with him in the organization. He served as president of the Santa Cruz I.C.F. Branch #21 for 6 years, and held the office of First Vice President for the Central Coast District. Mr Manor also served as a Branch Deputy for several other branches in the district. He was a member of the Santa Cruz Elks Lodge for 20 years, a former member of Oblates of St. Joseph,and past member of the California Labor Federation. He was a longtime member of the Santa Cruz Elks Lodge, and a parishioner of Holy Cross Catholic Church. A talented wood worker, he crafted beautiful furnishings for his home and family. Mr. Manor enjoyed working on his own vehicles, and was able to fix just about anything in the household. While he and Mary have lived in their Seabright home for more than 51 years, it will fondly be remembered that a plumber or contractor has visited the house for repairs only two times. Mr. Manor looked forward to working and gardening; his home being the place for his children and grandchildren to stay, play, and relax. His love for his family and dedication to them was the most important thing in this life. He will be missed; but would not want tears, rather celebrate all the good times; cherish each other, and live life passionately. He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Mary Manor of Santa Cruz, his son, Alan Manor of Capitola, his daughters; Debra Hatcher of San Marcos, Audrey Chapman of Citrus Heights, Nancy Alexander of Chandler, AZ; Valerie Dungan of Murrieta, CA; and his four wonderful sons-in-law, Richard Hatcher, Craig Chapman, Ronn Alexander and Barry Dungan. Mr Manor also leaves his grandchildren: David Solomon, Sonia Nelson, Emily Hatcher, Alayna Manor, Aaron and Jeremy Alexander and two great grandchildren; Quest and Millie Alexander. One of 11 children, Mr. Manor leaves seven siblings, and was preceded in death by a brother and two sisters. He will be laid to rest with military honors in a private ceremony at Sacramento Valley National Cemetery. An invitation for friends and family to gather for a memorial mass at Holy Cross Catholic Church to celebrate his life, will be published soon. Any kind acts of charity can be made in his memory to The Italian Catholic Federation or to Hospice of Santa Cruz County.