Manuel Canhoto

Manuel Canhoto, lovingly known to family and friends as Manny, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, October 18, 2026, at his home in Abita Springs, Louisiana, at the age of 76.

Born on June 18, 1950, in Olhão, Portugal, Manuel carried his Portuguese heritage with great pride throughout his life. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend whose larger-than-life personality, sense of humor, and love for those around him left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Manuel was the beloved husband of Joanne Markus Canhoto and loving father of Michael John Canhoto and his wife, Chelsi Kreger Canhoto. He was a proud grandfather of Taytem Morris Miller, Sophia Elizabeth Canhoto, and Mazie Jeanne Canhoto, each of whom held a special place in his heart.

He was the son of João Martins Viegas Canhoto and Maria Rita Quintas Viegas. The youngest of six children, Manuel also leaves behind a large extended family of siblings, in-laws, nieces, and nephews who will cherish his memory.

Manuel knew how to enjoy life and believed that some of its greatest moments were the simplest ones. He loved a good card game, especially his Tuesday nights spent playing cards with friends. He was an avid soccer fan who proudly cheered for Benfica and Real Madrid. Whether watching a match, sharing a laugh, enjoying a trip to the casino, or spending time with his family, Manuel found happiness in the people and traditions he loved.

Among the many friendships Manuel treasured, one of the most special was the bond he shared with his best friend, Francisco “Chico” Gomes. Their friendship was one built on years of loyalty, laughter, shared memories, and an unbreakable connection. Chico was more than a friend to Manuel; he was family. Their friendship was a beautiful reminder that some of life’s greatest blessings are the people who stand beside us through the years.

Manuel also loved traveling, especially returning to New York to reconnect with the friends and familiar faces who remained so dear to him. Having recently returned from one of those trips, his unexpected passing is an especially difficult reminder of how precious our time together truly is.

To know Manuel was to know someone who loved deeply, laughed often, and truly enjoyed the company of others. His presence could fill a room, and the memories he created will continue to bring smiles, laughter, and comfort to those who loved him.

Although his passing leaves an immeasurable void, his family finds peace in knowing that he is now walking in Heaven, reunited with loved ones who have gone before him.

Although he resided in Louisiana, his only public memorial details are below:

A Funeral Mass celebrating Manuel’s life will be held on Saturday, October 24, 2026, at 8:00 am EST at Our Lady of Fatima Portuguese Church, 355 South Broadway, Yonkers, New York 10705.

Cremation arrangements are being handled by Bagnell & Son Funeral Home.