July 30, 1934 – March 24, 2024

Manuel Antonio Bustamante, Age 89, Passed away peacefully in his sleep on March 24, 2024, in Ivins, Utah. Manny was born on July 30, 1934, in Belen, New Mexico, to parents Manuel Sr. and Adelena Bustamante.

Manny served in the Navy as an aviation storekeeper on the USS Point Cruz during the Korean War. His ship had the unique experience of adopting a baby while at port in Korea. This story is documented in the book and film “1000 Men and a Baby” as well as the TV movie “Narrow Escape.”

He distinguished himself as a Transportation Specialist in the U.S. Postal Service with an honorable career of 34 years there. After retirement, he moved to Southern Utah and volunteered in the “English as a Second Language” program at LaVerkin Elementary School, receiving commendations for his work.

Manny was the life of the party, entertaining family, friends and neighbors with his unique and lively sense of humor.

He was preceded in death by his son Manuel Jr.; daughter Susan; sisters Lucy, Ruby, Rose and Stella; and brothers Danny and Arthur. He is survived by his wife Barbara whom he married on Nov. 26, 1991, in Reno Nevada; his brother LeRoy; his children Eileen Kret, Eileen O’Hara, Roy Womack and Kathy Starks; and his numerous loving nieces, nephews and grandchildren.

A special acknowledgment of Manny’s recent caregiving goes out to the compassionate and exceptional treatment he received at the Southern Utah Veterans Home, his hospice teams through both CNS and Canyon Home Care and Hospice, as well as the McMillan Mortuary. Their loving kindness and respect made such a difference to Manny and to those who love him.

A celebration of Manny’s life will be held Sunday, April 21 at 10 a.m. at the Park at Green Valley Clubhouse located at 545 S. Valley View Drive in St George near the pool lawn area.

Condolences may be shared on the McMillan Mortuary website.