Doreen was born in Gilroy to Rocky & Mildred Rea on December 13, 1929. She attended grammar school in Gilroy before moving to San Jose. She graduated from San Jose High School and then went on to attend O’Connor’s School of Nursing. She met “Lucky” and married in August 1949. She was married for 59 years and is survived by “Lucky” Manuel and three children; Randy (Gloria) of Mesa, AZ, Kathy (Harry) Hill of Hollister and Dennis (Julie) of Gilroy. She is survived by seven grandchildren, Michael, Matthew, JulieAnn Barroza of Morgan Hill, Damian & Jennifer Hill of Hollister, Justin & Sierra Barroza of Gilroy, sisters; Virginia Grossi, Vira Bowen and Mildred Pendergraft, along with many nieces and nephews.
She loved the outdoors, including fishing, camping, skiing and working in her garden. She loved to fly and was especially proud of her solo flying certificate, which was one of her favorite accomplishments.
Doreen was loving, caring and compassionate to all who knew her, and will be missed very much.
A Vigil service will be held on Wednesday, December 26th , 6:00 P.M. at Habing Family Funeral Home, located at 129 Fourth Street in Gilroy. Funeral Mass will be held on Thursday, December 27th at 10 A.M. at St. Mary’s Church, located at 11 First Street in Gilroy. Burial will follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery.
