Juan Manuel Zaldumbide Sr.'s Obituary
Juan Manuel Zaldumbide Sr, affectionally known as "Manolito," of Frederick, MD, formerly of Rockville, MD, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on October 31, 2025, at Asheir Manor Assisted Living Home, after a lengthy illness. He was born January 15, 1933, in Quito, Ecuador, son of Juan and Olympia Zaldumbide.
Juan is survived by his children, Maria Z. Fahey (Daniel), Sandra Campbell (Eric), and Juan Jr (Julie) and his beloved grandchildren Christina Fahey, Michael Fahey, Stephanie Fahey Sexton, John Campbell, Emily Campbell, Griffin Snyder, Jake Snyder, and Aiden Zaldumbide to whom he is lovingly known as "Papi." He is also survived by his sister Hipatia Zaldumbide and numerous nieces and nephews who reside in both the United States and Ecuador.
Juan is preceded in death by the love of his life, Maria Mercedes Zaldumbide, known as "Michita," who he married on December 13, 1958. Their love served as a beautiful example of commitment and mutual support for all who knew them. He is also preceded in death by his siblings Laura Piana, Teresa Cabanilla, Zaida Hidrobo, Yolanda Galvez, and Hernan Zaldumbide.
After the birth of their first daughter Maria, Juan and Mercedes emigrated to the United States in search of the "American Dream." Juan left everything behind, including family and friends, to start a new life. They became US citizens and settled in Maryland where Juan worked in the hospitality industry. He was a learned craftsman who volunteered his time to not only his family, but friends and neighbors, as well, helping with home renovations, decks, roofs, and he even built his granddaughter a life-sized doll house for her backyard.
Juan was one of the first in his family to come to the United States and he paved the way for his family and friends. He opened his home to his loved ones who needed help when first arriving in this country, giving them a place to stay as they became acclimated to their new home. Juan was known for his selflessness, strong commitment to his family, and strong faith. He put his family first always, even in his last days; he was more concerned with how his children and grandchildren were doing and what they might need despite his own health struggles. Juan will always be remembered for his authenticity, sense of humor, ability to make others feel special, and resilience through tough times; he will be missed by all who knew and loved him.
A celebration of life will be held Friday, November 21, 11:00 am at St. Katherine Drexel Catholic Church, 8428 Opossumtown Pike in Frederick, Maryland. There will be a reception to follow at Dutch's Daughter Restaurant, 581 Himes Avenue, Frederick, Maryland.
In lieu of flowers, donations to St. Jude Children’s Hospital are appreciated.
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