Manuel James Carrillo

Manuel James Carrillo, 84, of St. Joseph, Missouri, passed away on March 13, 2026, at a Savannah, Missouri health care facility. Born on December 2, 1941, in St. Joseph, he was the son of Virginia (Grooms) and Nicholas Carrillo. He graduated from Benton High School in 1960 and soon after enlisted in the United States Air Force, serving his country faithfully for seven years.

On August 15, 1964, Manuel married Marie Hernandez at St. James Catholic Church in St. Joseph. He spent his career as a maintenance engineer, working for many years at Seitz Foods and Sara Lee. Manuel took great pride in everything he did, whether caring for his yard and car, pursuing his love of woodworking, photography, airplanes, or following NASCAR. A devoted chocolate lover, he was a longtime member of St. Patrick Catholic Church.

He was preceded in death by his daughter, Chris Power, his father, Nicholas Carrillo, his mother, Virginia Johnson, and his sister, Gloria Bundridge. Manuel is survived by his wife, Marie Carrillo, of the home; his daughter, Laurie (Doug) Keller of St. Joseph; his former son-in-law, David Power; his brother, Bob (Lois) Carrillo of St. Joseph; his brother, Nick (Tammy) Carrillo of Georgia; his sisters, Judy (Greg) Pearson of Florida and Brenda (Tom) Frizell of St. Joseph; his brother-in-law, Harley Bundridge of St. Joseph; his grandchildren, Jessica Power, Will Power, Amelia and Isabella Keller; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.