In Loving Memory of Manuel Valencia Artolazabal

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of our beloved father and grandfather, Manuel Valencia, who left us peacefully on June 13th, 2025, at the age of 95.

Born in Valencia Spain, to Victorio Valencia and Josefa Artolazabal, the youngest of 10 siblings, Manuel grew up during the Spanish Civil War and was raised by his older brother.

He proudly served in the Spanish Merchant Marines before pursuing his education at the University of Barcelona.

He continued his education with determination, ultimately earning an MBA from Columbia University in New York where he met his wife, the love of his life, Ruby Aránguiz Lezaeta. Together, Manuel and Ruby lived in various countries until returning to Spain in 1972.

Manuel became a father in 1974 with the birth of his daughter Barbara and then again with the birth of his son Manuel in 1978. The Valencia family moved to the San Francisco Bay Area in 1980 where Manuel had a successful career as a sales executive. They relocated to Newport Beach, California in 1994 where he spent his retirement years in support of Ruby's art career.

Manuel was a man who lived quietly but profoundly. He devoted his life to his family and made every possible sacrifice he could for them. As a grandfather to four grandchildren, Eliana, Andrés, Mateo and Nicolas, his joy was complete. He saw them as blessings, and in them, he found renewal and light.

Manuel carried his heritage with pride and grace throughout his life's journey, one guided by purpose, perseverance, and a deep faith in God. He leaves behind a legacy of humility, strength, and unshakable hope.

He will be remembered for his wisdom, quiet strength, and the kindness he extended to everyone who knew him. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the family he cherished, and the lessons he instilled.

Though our hearts are heavy, we take comfort in the promise of eternal life. We know he is now at peace, held in the arms of the Lord, reunited with Ruby, and watching over those he loved.

A private funeral service will be held on Thursday June 19th, 2025. Family and friends are asked to pray for him in remembrance.