Rita Manchego

Our dear mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend, Rita Manchego, left this earthly life to be reunited with her loved ones on June 19, 2020.  Born October 8, 1934 in Center, Colorado to Lydia Torres. Her Grandpa Torres, whom she loved and adored, helped raise her.  Also, her stepfather Max Martinez stepped in and accepted her as his own.

She is survived by her siblings Max (Joan) Martinez, Frank (Aurora) Martinez, Lorraine (Larry) Archuleta and Elaine Martinez. Also, survived by her children Debbie (Richard) Merino, Diane (Frank) Harlan, Darrell Manchego and Douglas Manchego.

She was also blessed with 13 grandchildren, 34 great grandchildren and 9 great, great grandchildren. She also had a best friend, Rose Griego, whom she was friends with since the 1st Grade. They remained friends, more like sisters, until her passing September 2019. Another special friend, since 1964, was Julia Romero. These two special ladies were considered our aunts while we were growing up.

Mom was a teacher's aid in the Tooele School District for many years. Her love and compassion for her students was amazing. If ever a student was in need of shoes or a winter coat, she would provide them with their needs. She had a very generous heart with whomever she knew and loved.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband of 65 years, Gilbert Manchego; and her mother and stepfather.

Mom and Dad used to love to go dancing. She enjoyed her trips to Wendover and just being with loved ones. She also had a love and interest in angels and now she walks amongst them.

A special thank you to her sister and our aunt Eliane who came from North Carolina to assist and care for her through some rough times. Also, special thank you to her nurses, Sharon and Patty,  who took good care of her.  A special thank you to her brother and sister-in-laws who also treated her like a real sister.

We will miss our Mama for her loving soul but are comforted in knowing that she is in the loving care of her true father and loved ones.

We all know that she is dancing once again with her Silver Fox and surrounded by many angels.

Services to held at St. Marguerites Catholic Church on Friday, June 26, 2020. Rosary and viewing at 10:15 am with Funeral Mass at 11:30. Interment will follow at the Tooele City Cemetery. Due to the Covid pandemic, only family will be allowed at the funeral. However we will have an open house at our mom's house after the funeral.

Condolence cards can be mailed to Darrell Manchego at 336 E Gordan Ln J-4, Murray, UT 84107 or to Debbie Merino at PO Box 695, Tooele, UT 84074.