Luis Manuel Zapata

Luis Manuel Zapata, 73, of Lawrence was born June 21, 1946, in Brownsville, Texas. Luis was surrounded by his family when he passed at his home on Saturday, May 30, 2020.

Luis is the son of Manuel and Guadalupe (Castaneda) Zapata, both of whom preceded him in passing. Also preceding him in death were two brothers, Alberto and Jesus Zapata.

Luis attended Archibald Vocational School in Ohio, and that fostered his life-long love of tinkering with cars and small engines. During his working career, Luis was employed at Du Well Corporation in Hartford, Rudy Manufacturing in Dowagiac and finished his working career at Hilltop Orchards in Hartford. Along with his enjoyment of tinkering, he also loved watching boxing and his favorite football team, the Dallas Cowboys.

On Sept. 24, 1966, Luis and Rosa Rodriguez were united in marriage. Rosa survives along with their children, Luis Jr. (Tina) Zapata, Irma (David) Cruz and David Zapata. He was blessed with six grandchildren: Melissa Cruz, Orlando Cruz, Emilio Zapata, Jacob Zapata, Ana Zapata and Gabriel Zapata; along with four great-grandchildren: Kendrick, Nevaeh, Josilyn and Aiden.

The family will welcome friends from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Wednesday, June 3, at Calvin Funeral Home in Hartford. Due to current state and federal guidelines, please remember there are restrictions on how many can attend at one time. We ask for your patience while visiting and know that everyone will be able to greet the family. Following the visitation, Luis will be laid to rest with a graveside service at Hill Cemetery in Lawrence Township, officiated by Pastor Manuel Delarosa. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the family. Those wishing to leave memorial condolences for the family may do so at http://www.calvin-leonardfh.com.