Manuel C. Leite, 99, of New Bedford passed away peacefully at home, Sunday, October 25, 2020, surrounded by his family.
He was born in Acushnet, the youngest of 7 siblings. He enjoyed sharing stories of "life on the farm."
Manuel proudly served in the United States Marine Corps as a Private First Class in the 4th Division during WWII. He fought in Saipan and earned a Purple Heart Medal for his bravery. Mannie proudly marched in local parades, serving as the Grand Marshall in Fairhaven. No outfit was complete without him wearing his red Marine cap!
He retired from Sunbeam Bakery in 1983 after 25 years of employment. He was an avid hunter who loved the outdoors. He was happiest sitting in the sun at the beach, going for a ride, eating a sweet treat, but above all else, being surrounded by his family.
Manuel was predeceased by his wife of 52 years, Mary (Simmons) Leite. For the past 20 years, he was blessed to experience a loving relationship with his girlfriend, Terry Patistea.
He is survived by his two sons, Wayne Leite and his wife Sue of Cornville, ME and Russ Leite and his wife June of Dartmouth; two daughters, Cindy Woodard of Oakland, ME and Kathleen Teixeira and her husband Louis of Dartmouth; as well as many loved grandchildren.
The family would like to thank his home care team, especially Fernanda Dutra, for their compassion and love.
His Funeral Mass will be celebrated Wednesday, October 28, 2020 at 10 AM at St. Lawrence Martyr Church. Visiting hours will be held Wednesday from 8:30 - 9:30 AM, prior to the Mass, in the Saunders-Dwyer Home for Funerals, 495 Park St., New Bedford. Burial will follow in Rural Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations in Manuel's memory may be made to a Veteran's charity of your choice. For directions and guestbook, visit www.saundersdwyer.com.