Manuel Rudolph Flores

Manuel R. Flores, beloved father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on December 1, 2024, at the age of 100. Born on May 29, 1924, in Santa Paula, California, to Luis and Luisa Flores, Manuel lived a full and extraordinary life, marked by service, resilience, and joy.

A proud World War II veteran, Manuel served his country with honor on Adak Island, Alaska. After the war, he worked for the federal government at Point Mugu until a workplace injury altered the course of his career. Despite enduring pain from his injury, Manuel faced life with courage and optimism, guided by his personal motto: “It’s mind over matter.”

Manuel loved the holidays and embraced the spirit of the season year-round. He was a generous giver, finding joy in making others happy through his thoughtfulness and kindness. He also loved music, dancing, and making others laugh with his great sense of humor. A gifted storyteller with an incredible memory, Manuel’s vivid tales and quick wit made every gathering special.

Family meant everything to Manuel, and he extended his love far beyond traditional bounds. In addition to his daughter, Olga Cruickshank (husband Gordon), and son, Michael Flores (wife Margo), Manuel cherished many “adopted” family members, including Steven and Nicholas Vaughn, whom he considered grandsons, and Brock Wildman, a great-grandson by marriage. He was preceded in death by his loving wife Beatrice in 2022.

Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10:00 a.m. Thursday, January 16 at Santa Clara Church, 323 South E Street, Oxnard.

The family invites all who knew Manuel to celebrate his remarkable life. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to a veterans’ organization in his memory.

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