Manuel David Calderon

Our beloved brother, Manuel Calderon passed away at the age of 78 in the early morning hours of May 25, 2025, peacefully, with his children at his bedside in Merced, California.

On September 23, 1946, Manuel David Calderon was born to Felicitas Gutiérrez and Daniel Calderon of Merced, California. By the age of 5, Manuel began to work, delivering newspapers for the Merced sun-star. He would become the fastest "paper boy" in town. He graduated from Merced High School; class of 1966 and joined the United States Navy. He served and fought from June 1967 to July 1971. Upon his return home to California, Manuel then attended and graduated from Merced College, earning himself an associate’s degree of art. It was then that he developed an even greater passion for music. In which he was able to collaborate with various artists from around the world. Manuel served 40+ years in the field of mechanical engineering, working for companies such as Goodyear Power and CertainTeed Fiberglass. 

Manuel possessed a certain set of skills that could not be matched. His talents are now seen through his children and grandchildren.

He instilled the belief that hard work does pay off. He would tell you that there is nothing in this world that can hold you back.

He is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Erlinda Calderon, parents Felicitas Gutiérrez & Daniel Calderon and sister, Gloria Green. He is survived by his daughter, Nina Rosalie Calderon and sons, Ralph Fidel Benavidez, Salvador Manuel Calderon, and Victor Jesus Calderon. Also, his three sisters, Guadalupe Buelna-Mims, Carol Marie Leon and Alicia Nush, his beautiful grandchildren, Breanna Victoria Zaragosa, Isabella Miranda Zaragosa, Delilah Erlinda Calderon, Joshua Ross Zaragosa and Thaden Benavidez, as well as numerous nephews, nieces, and cousins.

Also included as family would be his closest friends-his war buddies and pen pals, teachers and mentors, fellow musicians, students, and countless friends, who all can tell you, Mr. Calderon holds a special place in their heart & lives.

Greater is he that is within me, than he that is in the world.

In Loving Memory

Manuel David Calderon.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Manuel David Calderon, please visit our floral store.