EXTREMELY LATE NOTICE: CONFIRMED: Manuel Casares, Veteran, US Air Force, Vietnam/Retired Firefighter (242-25) 17 Dec 25
1204 Castroville Rd
San Antonio, TX 78237
USA
“LATE YESTERDAY”
US AIR FORCE VETERAN – VIETNAM WAR & RETIRED FIREFIGHTER
The family of Mr. Manuel Casares, a US Air Force Veteran, requests the presence and participation of the San Antonio Patriot Guard at the services, and the LEO supported procession, and graveside rendering of military honors of their loved one. We are honored to accept this invitation.
Manuel H. Casares, Jr., 76, of Von Ormy, Texas, passed away on December 3, 2025. Manuel was born in San Antonio, Texas on March 20, 1949, to Manuel C. Casares, Sr. and Concepcion L. Herrera.
Manuel was raised on the Westside and attended “the big Kennedy Green,” Kennedy High School, where he played football, basketball, and baseball, graduating in 1968. He voluntarily enlisted after graduation in the U.S. Air Force and served honorably in the Vietnam War.
After returning home, Manuel completed his associate degree in Fire Science at San Antonio College and had a distinguished 30+ year career as a firefighter at both Kelly and Lackland Air Force Base, where he was respected for his leadership, courage, and steadfast service. Throughout these years, he formed deep-rooted friendships that became like extended family to him—bonds that lasted a lifetime.
In 1974, Manuel married the love of his life, Maria. Across their 51 years of marriage, their family grew to include 7 children and 10 cherished grandchildren. Family brought Manuel his greatest joy. He was quick-witted, loved to laugh, and cherished music of all genres and generations. He enjoyed gatherings with family, movies-particularly old westerns, cheering for the Spurs, watching football and baseball games—rooting for Texas teams.
Manuel is preceded in death by his parents, Manuel C. Casares, Sr. (2009) and Concepcion L. Herrera (1993); his brother Juan (1975); and his brothers Roberto and Juan, who passed in infancy.
Manuel is survived by his devoted wife of 51 years, Maria E. Casares, and his 7 children: Carmen Casares-Cernoch (spouse Zak), Norma Zamarripa (spouse Robert), Robert M. Casares (spouse Daisy), Isabel Rios (spouse Mario), John Casares, Andrea Casares-Plascencia (spouse Eric), and Andrew Casares.
He is also survived by his 10 grandchildren: Julie Cernoch, Maddie Cernoch, Seth Zamarripa, Belicia Zamarripa, Maya Zamarripa, Matthew Casares, Emma Casares, Nicholas Casares, Mireya Rios, and Isela Rios.
Manuel is further survived by his brother, Enrique H. Casares, along with extended family, dear friends, and his cherished fire service and veteran communities.
Manuel will be remembered for his generosity, humor, loyalty, and unwavering love for his family. His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched.
WEATHER: Hi 69 / Lo 59, 22 % Chance of Rain, 99 % Humidity, Wind: 2 mph NNE
REQUESTOR: Narda Gomez, Family SPOX
STAGING: 8:30 am, Wednesday, December 17, 2025
Our Lady of Good Counsel Church
1204 Castroville Road
San Antonio, Texas 78237
https://goo.gl/maps/fDXc2nzWwd5t44Ro9
BRIEFING: 8:45 am
SERVICE: 9:30 am
Our Lady of Good Counsel Church
1204 Castroville Road
San Antonio, Texas 78237
https://goo.gl/maps/fDXc2nzWwd5t44Ro9
KSU: 10:30 am (Semper Gumby)
INTERMENT: 11:15 am – Shelter #2 (Call to Verify)
Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery
1520 Harry Wurzbach Road
San Antonio, Texas 78209
https://goo.gl/maps/kQ68VALuUAptXpgS9
RC: Lisa “Fancy Pants” Menard
pgr.lisamenard@gmail.com
FC: Rich “Richie Rich” Pachecano
rich@pachecano.net
ADDITIONAL INSTRUCTIONS
1. Iron horses if you can, cages are always welcome and appreciated and unless under special circumstances not allowed in processions. You do not have to have a motorcycle to participate in honoring our veterans.
2. Safety First: Please remember to properly hydrate (including the night before) before any outdoor activity and to dress appropriately. Do not hesitate to take a break at any time if you feel you need to get in the shade or get indoors and always ask for help at any time. Also please do not forget your sun screen.
3. Please remember that our mission is to stand tall and silent, and with honor and. NO TALKING, SMOKING, CHEWING OF TOBACCO PRODUCTS, OR CELL PHONE USE IN THE FLAG LINE!
***Safety Notice***
Before volunteering and/or attending any San Antonio Patriot Guard Riders missions we encourage you to review all safety information below. Included are some potential safety concerns to be aware of, however this does not include the full scope of all potential hazards. Anyone attending any San Antonio Patriot Guard Riders mission understands that they do so at their own risk. Neither the Patriot Guard Riders Organization nor its representatives are liable for any damages incurred on any PGR mission or event.
Funeral Processions/Escorts
EVERY RIDER IS SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for their own safety at all times while riding in a funeral procession.
At NO TIME are any riders authorized to block any intersection or otherwise block or impede traffic laws in any way. Only Law Enforcement officials are authorized to block and/or impeded the lawful flow of traffic.
If you choose to fly a Flag on your bike you are SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for ensuring it is secured and not a danger to any other rider or traffic.
Warm Regards,
Bob “Pizza Man” Johnson
Asst. State Captain
Deputy State Captain
San Antonio Patriot Guard
Dignity, Honor, Respect
Cell: 562-413-2223
“We can’t all be heroes. Some of us get to stand on the curb and clap as they go by.”
Will Rogers