Oberlin-Funeral service will be held for Melca "Syuaa" Manuel, 79, on Monday, January 28, 2013 at 1PM in St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church of Oberlin. Rev. Felix Anyikwa will officiate. Burial will follow in Manuel's Cemetery under the direction of Allen Parish Funeral Home.
The family will receive visitors beginning Sunday, January 27, 2013 from 1-10PM in Allen Parish Funeral Home-Oberlin Chapel. A rosary will be recited at 6PM. Visitation will continue in the Oberlin Chapel on Monday morning from 8AM until time of service.
Melca was a lifelong resident of Oberlin. He worked as a Merchant Seaman for 20 years. He also worked hard to provide for his family with the Carpenter's Union Local 953 of Lake Charles. He was a devoted husband of 49 years. He enjoyed fishing, cooking, hunting and gardening and was always accompanied by his loyal friend, "Tee-Boy". He was a loving dad and enjoyed his grandchildren and spending time with his family. He ate breakfast every morning at Keith's Café to visit with his friends. Melca's memory will be cherished by his family and everyone who knew and loved him.
Survivors include his wife, Mae Manuel of Oberlin; six children-Gary Marcantel and wife, Wanda, Mike Manuel and wife, Shelli, Melissa Marcantel and husband, Lee, Joe Manuel and wife, Marilyn, Todd Manuel and wife, Kellie, and Crystal Zerr and husband, Steve, all of Oberlin; one brother-Gilbert "Junior" Manuel; three sisters-Etheline "Yen" Baker, Bobbie "Tsit" Manuel, and Letha "Coaloi" Somers; twenty grandchildren; and two great grandchildren.
Melca is preceded in death by his parents, Gilbert and Levie Manuel; his twin brother, Milton "Syan" Manuel and brothers, Guston and Hewitt "Nook" Manuel; and one sister, Vergie Manuel Marcantel.
Words of comfort may be expressed to the family by visiting the website of the funeral home's main location: www.ardoinfuneralhome.com