Manuel de la Rua Obituary

Manuel Mariano de la Rua passed away on Thursday, February 8, 2024 at the age of 72 in Jefferson, LA surrounded by his loving family. He was born on November 2, 1951 in Havanna, Cuba to the late Victor M. de la Rua and Maria Concepcion de la Rua. Manuel graduated from Redemptorist High School in New Orleans, LA in 1970 after he and his parents emigrated to make a life in the States. He obtained his Bachelor's Degree in Education from the University of New Orleans, Master's Degree in Audiology and Speech Pathology from LSU School of Allied Health Professions. He then completed his O.D. in Optometry at the Southern College of Optometry in Memphis, TN. Manuel opened his own practice, Manuel M. de la Rua, OD. optometric clinic where he successfully served in the Kenner community for over 30 years. He proudly served as an Optometrist to many multinational patients until the date of his passing. He enjoyed film photography, exotic cars, and international politics. Both his wisdom and deep conversations will be missed by all who knew him. Manuel leaves behind his loving wife of 44 years, Deborah Tracey de la Rua, and children Alexander, Nicholas, and Greta de la Rua. Family, friends, colleagues, and patients of Manuel are invited to attend the Visitation on Wednesday, February 14, 2024 from 5 pm to 8 pm with Funeral Services beginning at 7 pm at Tharp Funeral Home, 1600 N. Causeway Blvd., Metairie, LA. To offer a message of condolence, for the de la Rua family please visit www.tharpcares.com. "Manuel Mariano de la Rua falleció el jueves 8 de febrero de 2024 a la edad de 72 años en Jefferson, LA, rodeado de su querida familia. Se invita a familiares, amigos, colegas y pacientes de Manuel a asistir al velorio el miércoles 14 de febrero de 2024 de 5 p. m. a 8 p. m. y los servicios funerarios comenzarán a las 7 p. m. en Tharp Funeral Home, 1600 N. Causeway Blvd. Metairie, Luisiana. Para ofrecer un mensaje de condolencia a la familia De la Rua, visite www.tharpcares.com."