Manuel Bernal

Manuel B. Bernal, 86, of Yakima and a former Mabton resident, died on Friday, Oct. 17, 2014. He was born Dec. 24, 1927 in Mercedes, Texas to Gregorio and Petra Bernal. Manuel settled in Washington in 1951 to work in agriculture. He met and married his wife, San Juana (Tita) Rodriguez Bernal in 1953. They lived together with their 10 children in Mabton. They were married for 55 years. Manuel later in life became a dedicated truck driver. He enjoyed taking his wife out dancing, spending holidays with his wife, children, and grandchildren. His favorite holidays were Thanksgiving and Easter. He loved to watch his grandchildren hunt for Easter eggs. Pastimes he was fond of were taking his children to Birch Bay Beach, auctions on Saturdays with his wife, watching NASCAR racing and baseball. In his late years, he became a fan of soccer. He is survived by 10 children; Raquel Bernal, Petra B. Pallares, Delia B. Garza, Norma B. Cortez, Manuel Bernal Jr., Nora B. Escobar, Sofia Bernal, Richard Bernal, Carlos Bernal and Matias Bernal. Manuel was the proud grandfather of 28 grandchildren, and 71 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife, San Juana Rodriguez Bernal. Manuel will always be loved and missed. Mass of Christian Burial was held, Oct. 22, 2014, at 11 a.m. at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Mabton, Fourth and Adams, followed by a horse carriage processional and graveside services at Mabton City Cemetery. Condolences may be sent to www.valleyhillsfh.com. Valley Hills Funeral Home in Sunnyside is in care of all arrangements. To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Manuel Bernal, please visit our flower store.