Obituary

In Loving Memory of Manuel Salvador Sierra — "Pops"Manuel Salvador Sierra, lovingly known to all of us as “Pops” or just “Baby,” was bornon January 11, 2000 — my firstborn, and the first grandchild on both sides of the family.From the very beginning, he was our heart, our joy, and yes, a little bit spoiled. But howcould we not? He was our Baby — and even as he grew into a young man, we neverstopped calling him that.The name Manuel comes from the Hebrew Immanuel, meaning "God with us." Andtruly, with Manuel in our lives, we always felt a little closer to joy, to laughter, and to love.Manuel had a spirit that lit up every room he entered. He had a big heart, a quick wit,and a smile that could make you laugh even when you didn’t feel like it. And who couldforget his long, curly hair — wild, free, and full of personality, just like him.He was a true jokester — always ready with something funny, and for some reason, justthe word “speedos” would have him cracking up like he’d never heard anything funnierin his life.He loved life. He loved food — steak, potatoes, chili cheese fries from Baker’s, LaysChile Limón chips, Hot Cheetos, Takis, ramen, and let’s not forget his weakness for hotbaked cookies. Wash it all down with a blue Gatorade and he was happy. We could listall his favorite snacks and still be here for hours — that’s just who he was.He was smart. Manuel was an A-student, always excelling in school and winningawards. He attended Live Oak, Sequoia, and Fontana High School. He liked reading,learning, and thinking deeply — even if he didn’t always let it show, there was always athoughtful side to him.Faith was a part of Manuel’s life, and it helped shape the man he became. He attendedBethel Temple Church with Pastor Charlie, and was also connected to VictoryOutreach Church under Pastor Sunny. These churches gave him guidance,community, and a spiritual foundation that carried him through life.Manuel faced a loss no child should — his father passed away when he was only 8years old, on January 18, 2008. That was a heartbreak he carried with him, but henever let it define him. He loved his dad deeply and always preferred to be with himwhen he could. That love never faded.He found joy in his skateboard — riding all around Riverside, Colton, Rancho, andespecially his home city, Fontana. He played football, proudly wearing number 44, andhad a story for the ages when he once broke another kid’s finger during a game — henever stopped telling that one. He also played baseball with the Angels, wore number11, and helped his team win a championship. He was full of talent and heart.He loved his PS5, taking pictures of himself, dancing to all kinds of music, and justbeing in front of a camera. He lived loudly and unapologetically. That was Manuel.Manuel passed away far too soon, on May 10, 2025, at the age of 25. Our hearts arebroken, but they’re also full — full of the memories, the love, the laughter, and themoments he gave us.He is survived by those who will love him forever: his mother, Irene; his brother, Steven;and his sister, Brianna.He is also lovingly remembered by his godparents: Angie, Raymond, Daniel, and Lisa;and his grandparents: Teresa, Salvador, Manuel, and Elaine.