Hello,

In my first year of my education degree, Manny was one of my professors at MRU. At the time, my attendance was low and I was struggling immensely with personal battles. Instead of reporting me, he had reached out to me to discuss my attendance and ended up speaking with me on the phone for an hour while I cried and we figured out a game plan. I'll never forget him telling me that there will be a time where I'd be walking the stage, receiving my degree, and this moment would feel like a distant memory, and that he couldn't wait for that day to come. Well, I am officially a certified teacher, hired as a substitute, and finished all the requirements for my Bachelor of Education. That conversation stuck with me all these years and I often reflect on how thankful I am that he was teaching me at that time. Today, I sent him an email to thank him, but then came across this obituary. My heart shattered knowing he is no longer with us. To Manny's family, the lessons he taught me as an educator will stay with me for life. He gave so much to his profession and truly embodied what it mean to be a caring, compassionate, and supportive educator. I wanted to pass along the impact he had on my life. I will never forget all that he did for me.

Rose and family

Manny was a true leader and gift to the Rocky View School District. I had the privilege of working with Manny as an external consultant. He traveled to Victoria to participate in one of Roy Group's leadership programs and shared his leadership insight and expertise with all of us. He will be missed and I wish you and your family ease and comfort. There aren't words for these times. And, knowing how much of an impact he had on others might spark moments of joy in the days ahead.

Dear Rose and family,

I am so sorry for your loss - my deepest condolences to you all. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

Kim Rucki

Dear Mrs. Ferreirinha and family. Please accept our heartfelt condolences on the loss of your husband, father and loved one. Prayers to all and Rest In Peace.

Tomasia DaSilva, Keith Snelgrove and Trinity DaSilva-Snelgrove

During my time at Rocky View Schools, Manny was always encouraging, enthusiastic, and full of energy and ideas. A kind man, with the needs of students at heart. My sincere condolences.

Rose, Dylan and Family,

My sincere condolences and deepest sympathy to you on your loss.

Maria Greco-Barberio

Our deepest sympathies to you and your family. Our thoughts are with you during this difficult time.

Carlos Pereira and family

Rose,

We were very saddened to hear of Manny’s passing. Our deepest sympathy, warm thoughts and prayers are with you and Dylan at this very difficult time.

Carmela and Gianni Cioffi

Our sincere condolences to Rose, Dylan and family. Manny was truly a "one in a million" who lived life to the fullest and was loved and respected by all. We celebrate his remarkable life and mourn a tragic loss. May God grant you strength during this difficult time.

Rose, Dylan and Augusto, we were saddened to learn of Manuel's passing. Please accept our heartfelt condolences for the loss of your husband, father and son. We have fond memories of Manuel during our high school and university years including being recipients of his infamous nicknames.

Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time,

Dominic (Sammy) and Maria (Miss Muffet) Gagliardi

When I think of Manny I smile - remembering his quick and ready smile…as genuine as can be. I feel a deep level of respect for his commitment to life in all its aspects…work, family, friends and service to others. I will remember many things we shared…classes, meetings, discussions, philosophies and laughter. I will always remember Manny’s friendship as a warm blanket in a sometimes cold world.

Rose and Dylan and all of Manny’s family please know that my prayers are with you and know that Manny will live on in our hearts.

Manny was my university instructor this past year in the University of Calgary education program. It was an honor to be in his classes and learn from his wisdom and knowledge in 30 years in education. His passion and energy will be remembered by his students and we will endevour to bring this same passion into our own careers, as he would have wanted us to do.

Mount Royal University was honoured to have Manny as part of our Bachelor of Education team. His contributions to education are many and it was great sadness we send our condolences to Rose, Dylan, Augusto and all of his family.

Lots of happy memories of Manny (Furbear). Our sincere condolences to Rose and Dylan.

Ed & Giovanna Goyan

I was shocked and saddened to hear of Manny's untimely passing. He was such a prince of a man. I had the honour of working beside him as a Director and got to know him well. It was obvious that the most important things in his life were Rose and Dylan, as he spoke lovingly about them every chance he could. He was a man who wore his heart on his sleeve, cared deeply about the people he both worked with and served, and he loved to laugh. Often he would share stories or tell jokes to get us laughing in the office. After retirement, he would always keep in touch. Heaven has gained a great addition. My thoughts and prayers are with your family as you navigate through this difficult time.

So sad to hear of Manny’s passing. I enjoyed working with him, his great ideas and his commitment to high quality teaching and learning. My best wishes to Rose and Dylan. May your memories bring you strength.

Craig Foley

Nancy Dutchik

May 5, 2022

Our deepest condolences to Rose, Dylan and the family. Manny was a thoughtful, insightful and compassionate leader. He always looked to serve each community and was present with each person. Manny will be missed by all that appreciated and loved his caring nature. Rest well Manny!

Rose & Dylan,

I had the privilege of working with Manny when he was the Area Director for westside schools in RVS. As a school principal, Manny was a mentor to me. He led by example. He saw the good in everyone and ensured he was present in schools. During his many classroom visits, Manny expressed a genuine interest in what students were doing. He would converse with students (sometimes carrying conversations with bilingual students in Portuguese) and always shook their hands before wishing them well when he left the room.

Family was of the utmost importance to Manny. During our meetings, he spoke fondly of both of you.

May you take comfort in your many memories and the outpouring of love surrounding you.

My deepest condolences, Rose, for Manny’s passing. Having worked with both of you, it was clear that your family was most important. I will keep him in my prayers.

Hugs to you Rose and to Dylan. Manny was a wonderful man and friend. Take comfort in your many happy memories.

Lindy Arndt

Dear Rose and Dylan, we are truly sorry to hear of the loss of Manny. He sounds like he was just the best person and had such a great professional career touching many people with his teachings.

Dear Rose and Dylan,

My sincerest condolences to both of you and your families . Manny was always very kind and polite to us and made us feel special every time we saw him. He will be in my prayers, as will you all. Sorry for your loss and may he rest in Peace.

Chiara Conforti

Rose, Dylan, Tio Américo, neste momento, de tanta dor, e, apesar da distância dos Oceanos, sintam-se unidos num abraço infinito de amor. Manny era o primo amoroso e dedicado, sensível e atento que nos abraçava e fazia rir com o seu jeito especial se Ser. Apaixonado pelo meu Pai, ficará para sempre nos nossos corações. Abraço infinito.

Dear Rose, Dylan and Family,

We are so sorry to hear of your great loss. Manny was such a warm and funny man, who shared his joy of life with those around him.

Remembering Manny and yourselves in our prayers,

Anna and Pat McMillan

Dear Rose, Dylan and Family,

We send you our deepest condolences. Manny will always be remembered by us as gentle, kind man with a contagious smile. He was always so welcoming whenever we would see each other. He will be greatly missed by all. May the memories you share, comfort you in this extremely difficult time.

Sincerely,

Lisa and Peter Zissos

Dear Rose, Dylan and family,

Please accept our deepest condolences. Manny was such a kind and gracious human being, he will be treasured always in our hearts as someone very special. May you have the strength to persist through the coming days and feel the love and support that surrounds you.

Sincerely, Krista, Jayson, Jakob and Tyler Harvey

Dear Rose and Family,

Please accept our sincere condolences as you suffer the loss of an incredible man. Manny was a kind and gentle person and I will remember him fondly. He was always so gracious whenever and wherever we would see each other while I served on the Board. May he rest in Eternal Peace and may you all be blessed with the strength to endure the difficult days ahead.

Sincerely, Linda & Philip Blasetti

I worked with Rose, many years ago, at St. Alphonsus School. I remember Rose saying ,on several occasions, lets call Manny, he will know what to do. Seemingly, out the blue, there was Manny, always ready to offer a helping hand. Manny, will be greatly missed by his family and friends. We will cherish the loving memories forever.

Dear Rose and Dylan,

Manny was such a kind and compassionate man and a caring and knowledgeable educator. It was my good fortune to have met and worked with Manny at Rocky View Schools. He was not only a trusted colleague but a good friend. He spoke often of your lives together and was always so proud of Dylan's accomplishments. I will miss our conversations to catch up on semi-retirement and family developments. I trust that your good memories of Manny will help you through this difficult time.

Don Hoium

Queridos Rose, Dylan e August,

É com imensa consternação e pesar que os nossos corações estão devastados com a triste noticia da partida do nosso Manuel. As nossas sinceras condolências.

Lau Mendes e Família

I met him in his role as Director of Schools with Rocky View Schools. I also enjoyed his visit to our school and the conversations we would have. I am support staff but he always made it a point to say hello to me and shake my hand. I have a great amount of respect for him. My condolences to his family.

To Rose and all the Ferreirinha family,

As a young leader Manny left a huge impression on me. He inspired me with his wisdom, kindness and obvious love for all things teaching and learning. May God be with you during this time of loss- sincerest condolences.

Selina Kruchten

Dearest Rosie, Dylan and Family,

We are immensely saddened to learn of the untimely passing of dear Manuel. We extend our heartfelt condolences to you and your family. We will miss Manny’s gentle smile and thoughtful presence. He dedicated his life to the betterment of the future through his teachings, guidance and compassion. Manny’s kindness and generosity has left a lasting imprint in our hearts.

Sending love and thoughts of comfort,

Assunta, Gordon and all the Dale Family

May God bless you Manny. Rose and Dylan our deepest sympathies. I was blessed to have had the opportunity to work and know a man like Manny.

Manny and I grew up together from elementary to high school. I was very much a part of his family and had one of my first jobs working at the family furniture store; which instilled in me a life-skill of the rewarding feeling you get as a result of one’s hard work.

I was always included in family get togethers, which is where I developed my taste for Portuguese cuisine and homemade red wine.

We had the typical adolescent up bringing. This included ringing neighbors doorbells and running, making the odd prank phone call, and our failed attempt at having our first cigarettes. One of our most memorable incidents was during a Junior High science class where WE accidently used the wrong chemicals in combination with a Bunsen burner and almost blew up the lab; Manny looked at this as a learning experience and I lost my interest in science.

Manny had a lust for life and always took the approach of seeing life’s barriers as opportunities. I will have very fond memories of friendship and many life experiences we shared.

Our prayers and condolences to Rose, Dylan, and August.

Frank & Barb Jantz

I was always struck by the depth of your relationship. Be comforted ROSE, in the fact that you spent many, many years together.

Our heartfelt condolances to you and your son.Our prayers and thoughts are with you at this difficult time.

Keith and Connie Firnesz

Manny was a wise and supportive colleague. I will cherish all that he taught me when we worked together. My condolences to entire family.

Rose and Dylan, my deepest condolences to you. My thoughts and prayers are with you both and your family at this difficult time.

Manuel shared many wonderful stories with me about his work in field experince at the University of Calgary. He was a passionate, kind and positive leader who had a great impact on his students and colleagues. My deepest condolences to his family.

Our sincere condolences to you Rose and your son Dylan. We have fond memories of Manny. He was a fine man. RIP. Manny.

John and Anita Cleary.

I met Manny just a few months ago as the instructor for my field placement in the student teaching program at the University of Calgary. Within minutes of meeting him, Manny had an immediate positive impact on my perspectives and ambitions as an aspiring educator. His passion and kindness will not be forgotten. My deepest condolences to his family.

I met Manuel this semester through his work at the University of Calgary, and he was a vibrant and wonderful instructor to his students. Please accept my deepest condolences.

Astrid Kendrick

Dear Rose and Family,

I am so sorry to hear that Manny has passed away. Our connection dates back to my early years of teaching when he was one of my Junior High students. Already, his love and passion for learning and serving was evident. Later on, our paths crossed when he became a teacher, and then a teacher of teachers. Manny dedicated his professional life to education. In his friendly, caring, and gentle manner, Manny left a lasting impression on all of those around him.

May you, Rose, and the family, find peace and comfort during this difficult time, through the sharing of the fond memories Manny has left you. God Bless.

Rose, so sorry to hear your loss. My condolences to you, Dylan, and your family. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Take care.

I had the privilege of working closely with Manny as we planned many professional learning activities together at Rocky View Schools. He was always kind & considerate to everyone, & had a great sense of humour. His love for his family was evident and he was so proud of Dylan. May you be comforted by your memories of him. My deepest condolences.

Rose and family,

I am so sorry to hear about Manny. I have such fond memories of him. He was an amazing man. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time.

Valerie Shannon (Pardell)

Manny was a special man who had an incredible influence on those who had the privilege of knowing him. He was an amazing person, full of life, and always took the time to listen. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family Rose. It was truly a blessing to know Manny!

So sorry to hear about the loss of your husband, Rose. My thoughts and prayers are with you, Dylan and the whole Ferreirinha during this difficult time.

Truly a wonderful gentle soul! Manny taught me so much in helping me become an instructional leader through the first AISI projects. This helped form me as a future CCSD administrator which I am very grateful for. But it wasn't what Manny taught me, but how he did. He always role modelled great kindness and compassion. My condolences to Rose and family as our prayers and thoughts are with you.

Rose and Dylan, I am so sorry for your loss. Manny was a wonderful loving man who was loved by many. He influenced me early in my teaching and administration career. He modelled excellence, compassion and love of learning. I am saddened by his loss and I will keep you in my prayers.

A room lit up every time Manny walked in. His passion for learning, love of life, sense of humour and calmness were infectious. Manny inspired me so much as a leader and I always was amazed at how much he knew about everything! His love for his family was very much known and Manny has left a footprint behind that has touched many lives! My sincere condolences Rose and Dylan. May God hold you in the palm of his hands.

Manny had a very impactful impression on me as a graduate student at Gonzaga University. He was a powerful force for education and the world will miss him. My prayers and blessings for you and your family Rose.

Manny always had a warm smile and welcoming heart. He always made people feel welcome and listened too. We will miss him.

Although no words can take away the sorrow that you bear. May it be comforting to you to know that others care. I’ll remember Manny in many positive ways-with a big smile and a great sense of humor, always great with a story. Let memories of the times you shared give you comfort, for his life was rich because of you. Our most sincere condolences!

Teresa Love & Greig Hyland

Manny was the first kind and influential leader that I worked with at Calgary Catholic 22 years ago -his words still guide me today. I am sorry for your loss Rose, may you find peace and solace in loving memories.

Our condolences to Rose and Dylan at the passing of Manny. I have very fond memories of working with Manny at Father Scollen many years ago. They were certainly some of my fondest years teaching..He was so supportive and brought great humor and practical jokes to the workplace. Thank your Manny for all you did for staff, students and your family.

Rest in peace!

Paddy and Ron Ehrhardt

My heart is breaking. He was one amazing and funny and generous man. It was always easy just to see how much he loved his wife and son and he was a wonderful brother in law and uncle as well. I loved his sense of humour and laugh the most and how he shook his head when he said something funny. The world has lost a kind soul.

We are so very sorry for your loss, our thoughts are with all of you.

Astrid, Mark and family

Rose and Dylan, I am so terribly sorry for your loss. Manny was a wonderful man, mentor and colleague. There are no words to express how much he will be missed by so many. Love to you both,

Rosa and Dylan, our hearts are devastated by the sad news.. our manel.. a very big kiss and a lot of strength. ❤

Rose and Dillion,

I was saddened to hear of Manny’s passing today. I was fortunate to have him as my area director but even more so my friend. He had a heart for people and was a sincere example of servant leadership. He was a treasured mentor to me and I will miss the lunches and phone calls immensely. My condolences to both you.

Jeff Chalmers

I’m so sorry to hear about Manny’s passing. I was fortunate to get to know Manny as both a teacher and as a student.

Manny and I both worked for Rocky View Schools, and I started to get to know him when he was serving as the west-side Area Director while I was teaching at École Manachaban Middle School. He was always friendly and understanding, taking the time to chat with staff members and students alike. He would come out to our big events, and he always had a big smile on his face.

In the summer of 2017, I returned to university to do my Masters in Education. I was nervous to be a student again, and was delighted to have Manny as one of my first two profs. The reading list included hundreds and hundreds of pages of articles, and I was starting to feel overwhelmed… no need at all! During our very first class, Manny informed us that we’d stick to the essentials and focus on what was really important. His class (and, moreover, his teaching style and easygoing nature) allowed us to connect as a cohort and begin to learn together as a group. The discussions that he facilitated helped us to grow as professionals and find our way back into the world of being students.

In particular, I remember one day from that first summer, where Manny broke us into groups so that we could look at some of the major guiding documents for education in Alberta. He had prepared, with the help of his wife, HUNDREDS of cutout shapes of paper: circles, squares, hexagons, and so on, all on different colours. We used these papers to make huge visual representations of the essential elements of each of those documents. What I most remember from that day is not actually the content of the documents, but Manny’s love of teaching and his dedication to doing so much prep work to allow us to have some fun with a not-so-exciting subject.

In our final year of studies, we had Manny once again for a final leadership course. He was the only prof that we had twice during our Masters program, and it was a real treat to work with him a second time. He made sure that we had the best classroom (with room to spread out, not to mention a view!), and this class was just as rewarding as the first. We did skits, we had deep discussions, we pushed ourselves to keep learning, and we even had a dance party on the last day.

All this to say, I feel fortunate to have known Manny. He has made me a better educator and I know that he did the same for many others as well. I hope that his family and friends find comfort at this difficult time, knowing how much he was treasured and how much of a difference he made in the world.

Sincerely, Katt Hryciw

I had the honour and pleasure of being Manny's student while working towards my education degree. His kindness will be missed by all and is something I will always remember as I continue my journey as a teacher.

Sincerely,

Kevin

I remember Manny fondly. His passion for supporting students to be the best they could be, his sense of humour, and the way he treated everyone with respect, interest, and kindness. The world is a better place because of Manny. My deepest condolences. Chris Pawluk

Manny brought passion and joy to eveything he did. I had the honour of working with Manny at Rocky View Schools before he departed on his next jouney. He was a mentor and an inspiration to many. Sending my most heatfelt condolences to his family and friends. May you find comfort in the legacy he created that has impacted so many children, youth and familes. Sincerely, Jodi

I had the honour of working with Manny at RVS. He will be fondly remembered for his kindness and genuine care for everyone. A true heart of gold.

Dear Rose, and Dylan,

Words cannot express how we feel at the loss of your dear husband, father and friend Manny.. As you know, John grew up with Manny and together our families were intertwined for over 50 years. When we think of Manny, we feel so grateful and blessed. Manuel was such a kind and loving soul. He had such a "joie de vivre" and celebrated life anytime he could. His laughter and beautiful smiles are imprinted on our hearts. His calm ways were so comforting. We will remember his Spanish dancing at festivals, hosting incredible seafood dinners and barbeques, inviting friends at the beautiful Fairmont cabin, playing with his son who was his pride and joy, kidding around with our kids who only knew him as "Uncle Manny", cuddling with his amazing dog companions, setting off fascinating fireworks for New Years, sharing interesting travel stories, swimming and sunning any chance he got, or playing games with "new alias names", he always created to make us laugh. He will always be a special friend in our hearts. He worked hard to achieve his goals in life and knew how to celebrate those accomplishments in style. He loved his family so much and gave them the best always. We are so lucky to have had Manny in all of our lives. He touched so many people with his love and warm hugs. May the beautiful memories of a life well lived stay with each of us eternally. Rose and Dylan we send you our sincerest sympathies and condolences at such a great loss. May the love and memories you shared, be safe in your hearts forever. Sending our love and prayers, Maria, John, David, (Piotto) Katelyn, Colton, Ellie and Maverick (Nickel)

So beautiful to read of Manny’s many accomplishments; his family and friends must of been very proud of him. He definitely was a brilliant and loving family man.

Wishing you peace, comfort, courage, and lots of love at this time of sorrow.

Our heartfelt condolences❤️

Your Cousins,

Rose, Sam, Francesco, Caterina, Tory and Family

Manny and I worked together at Rocky View Schools. His enthusiasm for life and sense of humor made work a pleasure with him. His love of family was very strong and he loved to share some of the special times. Sending love and hugs to Rose, Dylan and all the family.

I am so sorry to hear of Manny’s passing. I so enjoyed our time together at Alberta Education in the Calgary office. He was a mentor and a dedicated educator. He also had a wicked sense of humour and loved a laugh. When I became a member of CASS he was my mentor and I enjoyed our conversations and time together. My condolences to your entire family, he will be missed.

Sending my sincere thoughts and prayers to your family during this difficult time. Manny was a wonderful educator and leader and he inspired and encouraged me to go into educational leadership very early in my career. For the past 20+ years in my various roles in leadership, I continue to implement practices that I learned when I worked for Manny in my first school as a beginning teacher. His legacy lives on. Take good care.

Sending my love and prayers to Rose, Dylan and the rest of the family. Manny was one of the kindest and considerate individuals I have ever had the privilege to work with. As a brand new principal I was so fortunate to have his servant leadership to learn from. Everyone lucky to have crossed paths with Manny is better for it. Even dealing with “someone (DF)” who decided to long board down the Cochrane Hill was done with care and love. He will be missed by so many.

Thinking of you all at this time.

Anne Kromm

We are so sadden by your profound and heart breaking loss. Please know dear Rose and Dylan we are carrying you in our hearts. Sending much love at this deeply sorrowful time. Your cousin Teresa and Kurtlin

My condolences to Rose, Dylan, and family. Sleep well my friend.

Rose, Dylan & family. I was very saddened to learn about Manny's passing. He was kind, supportive and insightful in all of our interactions over the years. I'll forever be grateful for his support and guidance over the many years that we worked together.

He often spoke of you both lovingly.

Sincerely,

Brendan Trinca