Manuel Garza Salazar (Mel Fender) 61, of Corpus Christi; passed away on Monday September 20th, 2010. He is preceded in death by his beloved mother, Margarita Garza Huerta; Baldemar Huerta (Freddy Fender), Inocencio Huerta and Juan Jose Huerta. Manuel was a humble and selfless man who lived his life for his daughter and his family. Ashley Nicole was a light in her father's eye, he loved her and was extremely proud of her and grandson Landon. Manuel's laughter and his witty sense of humor will be missed by all who loved and knew him. Manuel loved to sing and sang locally for his family and friends. He is affectionately known to his family as Uncle Beke' and he will live in our hearts and memories forever. Manuel served his country as a sailor in the Navy during the Vietnam War and was awarded the Purple Heart Medal for being wounded in combat. He lived his life to entertain and he touched our lives eternally and our hearts will mourn him forever. Manuel is survived by his daughter, Ashley Nicole Pierce; a grandson Landon; stepchildren, Troy, Michelle and Tiffany; his brothers, Isidro Huerta (Elena) of Elsa and Jose Luis Mendez (Lulu) of San Benito; sisters, Minerva Cantu and Sylvia Salazar of Corpus Christi, and Elvia Shope of San Antonio. Uncle Beke' has numerous nieces and nephews in the Valley, Corpus Christi, San Antonio and Houston. He had numerous cousins in San Benito and his beloved aunt Dolores Huerta (Tia Lola). His funeral viewing will be held on September 24th, at 12:00 noon to 2 p.m., at Thomae-Garza Funeral Home Chapel. A Graveside service will follow to San Benito City Cemetery where Manuel will be laid to rest. Words of comfort may be sent to the family of Manuel Garza Salazar at www.thomaegarza.com Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Thomae-Garza Funeral Directors, 395 S. Sam Houston, San Benito, TX 78586