Manuel Leroy Candelaria 81, a long-time resident of Albuquerque, New Mexico, Army Veteran passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on January 13th 2026. Manuel was born in Los Angeles, CA to Petra Jaramillo and Silviano Candelaria. He is preceded in death by his wife of 56 years Rita Candelaria and his son Gabriel Candelaria. He is survived by his three children, Joann, Manuel Jr. and Geraldine, three brothers, Carl, Silviano Jr and Richard as well as many grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Manuel enjoyed fishing, going to live football games, especially when the Dallas Cowboys played, his favorite team all is life! He also enjoyed going to church on Sundays with his Family and dancing to New Mexico Spanish music. Manuel retired from the City of Albuquerque Water Utility Authority as a Superintendent. He was a loving, caring and giving man who had an infectious smile and a kind and compassionate spirit, he would give you the shirt off his back! He was loved by so many and will be truly missed!

A Funeral Service will be held in his honor on February 11th, 2026 at Sacred Heart Church located at 412 Stover Ave SW Albuquerque, NM 87102. Viewing will be at 9:30am Rosary will follow. In honor of his wife Rita Candelaria, he requests that attendees were purple. Flowers and/or donations may be sent to 7119 Alicante Ave SW, Albuquerque, NM 87121.