On Christmas day of 1938, the world welcomed Emanuel “Manny” Cambra Jr., only son of Emanuel Sr. and Frances Cambra.
Manny began life in a rural community, excelled at New York Military Academy – graduating salutatorian, and launched into a life dedicated to family and service to others.
Above all material things, Manny dedicated his life to the Church. As part of Saint Jude Parish in Monroe since 1981, Manny was a dedicated and active member, taking on the roles of eucharistic minister, Catechism teacher to children, and leader of a men’s Bible study group.
He took great pride in being a fourth-degree knight in the Knights of Columbus Council 5987. He believed that through faith and learning, he could contribute to the spiritual growth and well-being of future generations.
In his commitment to a life of service and duty, Manny also engaged in a diverse array of civic responsibilities. To the town, he served on the Board of Finance, successfully ran for, and fulfilled the office of tax collector for many years, and actively participated as a member of the Republican Town Committee.
In New Jersey and Connecticut, he followed the passions of his children. He became a well-respected football, baseball, softball and wrestling coach, as well as a volunteer board member in many of those leagues. Those driving by the town hall will also see two stretches of stone wall – lovingly restored, in part by Manny, as part of one of his son’s Eagle Scout project.
In his immediate family, Manny is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Frances Cambra; seven children and their spouses: Emanuel III, Matthew (Christina), Mark (Michele), Maria Bufalini (Mario), David (Annunziata), Daniel (Brian), and Paul (Kelly); 11 grandchildren; and three great grandchildren with one on the way. And through marriage, four more beautiful grandchildren as well.
Each one of his children and grandchildren are fortunate to have their own collection of stories to share of how Manny contributed to their lives. He valued each one of them for their unique gifts and talents, encouraging them to pursue their passions.
On November 10, 2024, Manny Cambra entered into eternal rest peacefully at home. He will be most remembered for his devotion to faith and family, insatiable curiosity, and desire to leave the world a better place through his actions and support of others.
The viewing hours will be at Spadaccino’s Funeral Home, 315 Monroe Turnpike, Monroe, CT, on Thursday, Nov. 14, from 4 to 8 p.m. A Mass of Christian burial will be held at Saint Jude Parish, 707 Monroe Turnpike, Monroe, on Friday, Nov. 15, at 11 a.m.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to Saint Jude Parish of Monroe or Blessed Sacrament of Bridgeport. Online condolences may be left at SpadaccinoFuneralHome.com.
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