Manuel Victoria Jr., 93, Local reknowned outdoorsman, passed away peacefully Sunday, March 6, 2011.
Manuel was born in Michoacán, Mexico, on September 21, 1917, and had been a Ventura Country resident for 90 years. He, his wife and new baby moved to Fillmore in 1945, immediately after WWII where he served as an Army shoe repairman near the front lines. This became his lifetime occupation.
Manuel is survived by his devoted wife, Connie. Four children; Mary Ellen Geibler, Victor, Richard and youngest daughter Elissa Valdivina. Also surviving Manuel are 11 grandchildren, and 24 great-gradchildren.
He was well known for his hiking, fishing, bicycling and backpacking with friends who shared his love of nature. Manuel also loved dancing with his wife and enjoyed taking her out every weekend for many, many years.
Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 9:30am on Friday, March 11, 2011 at Saint Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, 1048 Ventura St., HWY 126 in Fillmore with burial following at Bardsdale. A reception will be held at the Saint Francis of Assisi Catholic Church Courtyard and hall.