Obituary of Manuel Ponce

June 28, 1938 – Valparaiso, Chile

February 16, 2024 – Calgary, Alberta

Manuel Ponce of Calgary, AB passed away on Friday, February 16, 2024, at the age of 85 years.

Manuel was born in Valparaiso Chile on June 28, 1938. He studied at the Escuela Militar in Santiago Chile and graduated in 1956 where he was later employed with the Public Works Ministry of Chile. Manuel was an ardent social activist and heavily involved in political life in Chile.

He moved to Linares in 1964 where he met Lily, who became his wife in 1967. In 1976, he immigrated to Canada and settled in Calgary, AB, and in 1998, he was a founding member of the Chilean Canadian Association of Calgary and served as the Treasurer.

He is survived by his wife Lily, children, Ramiro (Rosalyn), Chris, Carmen, and Claudia; and his beloved grandchildren, Nicholas, Isabella (Andrew), Marcelo, and Veronica. He is also survived by his sisters, Marianela, Leda, and Diana, and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins in Canada and Chile. Manuel was predeceased by his sister Gloria, and his sons, Alvaro, and John.

Manuel had a lifelong passion for music and soccer. He is celebrated for his love of music, passion for social justice, dedication to family, and service to his community.

Funeral Mass will be celebrated at Mary, Mother of the Redeemer Parish (1714 – 14th Avenue N.E., Calgary, AB) on Friday, February 23, 2024, at 11:00 am.

If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to the Covenant Foundation, Suite #170, One Twelve Campus, 10130 112 Street NW, Edmonton, AB, T5K 2K4, Telephone: (780) 342-8126 or online at https://www.covenantfoundation.ca/donate-today.

Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed with Manuel’s family here.

In living memory of Manuel Ponce, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Crowfoot, 82 Crowfoot Circle NW, Calgary, AB T3G 2T3, Telephone: 403-241-0044.