March 19, 1927 - August 3, 2025
Manuel Rodrigues, 98, of North Vancouver, B.C., passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, on August 3, 2025.
He was predeceased by his loving wife of 55 years, Rosario Rodrigues, and five siblings; and is survived by his daughters, Grace (Richard) Sikich and Lissa (Kent) Calderwood; grandchildren Cristina, Julia, Sean, and James; one surviving brother and sister; and many nieces, nephews, and friends.
Manuel was born in Portugal, where he spent much of his childhood fishing and rowing for miles alongside his fisherman father. He shared fond stories of this time with his parents, siblings, and extended family— from swimming in the ocean in front of his home to picnicking on the beach and cooking their freshly caught seafood.
At the young age of 17, after his father’ s passing, Manuel left home to join the merchant marine to support his mother and siblings. He served in the Red Cross during World War II on ships crossing the Atlantic from Europe to the United States and then returning to Europe, delivering humanitarian aid, essential supplies, and food parcels to those affected by the conflict as well as to Allied prisoners of war in German camps. Manuel later travelled the world on various merchant and passenger ships, eventually becoming a chief steward.
Immigrating to Ontario, Canada, in the early 1960s, Manuel worked at Canada Wire and Cable as a machine operator. Loving farm life, he would often take on weekend work to earn extra money so he could continue supporting his mother and family in Portugal, while also saving to purchase a home of his own. In 1967, he married his beloved wife, Rosario, and they soon took the train across Canada to Vancouver, B.C., where he fulfilled his dream of buying a home. He returned to working on passenger ships— the SS Prince George (Vancouver to Alaska route) and later the SS Princess Margaret (Victoria to Seattle run).
Manuel was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. He loved his garden and, together with his wife, shared their many fruits, vegetables, and herbs with family and friends. Manuel cherished time spent with loved ones, opening his home often, especially for family meals and holiday celebrations. Later in life, he found immense joy in spending time with his four grandchildren. Manuel also loved music and had a beautiful singing voice— one he shared right up to his final days.
Manuel’ s life was defined by his gentle kindness and compassion towards others; his resilience, strength, and determination to make his way in life; and his very easy-going and calm nature, valuing peace and laughter in his daily life. We’ ll also never forget how, from a young age, he devoted himself to caring for those he loved.
Funeral mass will be held at Christ the Redeemer Catholic Church, West Vancouver, on Tuesday, August 19, at 11 am.
