Nolberto E. Manzanero

Nolberto Manzanero In Loving Memory Nolberto Manzanero passed away unexpectedly in his sleep on August 22, 2026, leaving behind family and friends who loved him deeply. Born in Maracaibo, Venezuela, and later making his home in New York for more than 50 years, Nolberto lived a life marked by dedication, service, conversation, laughter, and love. Nolberto devoted much of his professional life to education, physical education, and community support. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Physical Education from C.W. Post, Long Island University, and spent many years teaching in Venezuela and New York. His work began with teaching roles at Raul Osorio High School and Jose Antonio Chavez High School in Maracaibo. His final teaching chapter in Venezuela was at Rafael Urdaneta University, a role he was especially proud of. He later built the last chapter of his career with the New York City Board of Education’s Office of Adaptive Physical Education, where he served as a special education teacher and eventually retired. Athletics was an important part of Nolberto’s life from a very young age. A gifted athlete, he played baseball, softball, racquetball, volleyball, and basketball, and he was also a boxer and runner. Later in life, Nolberto used his athletic talents to make a difference in the lives of young adults with Down syndrome and other developmental disabilities, becoming deeply involved in their physical education and sports activities during his tenure at the nonprofit AHRC in Brooklyn, New York. Two of his most memorable experiences were attending the World Series at Yankee Stadium and meeting the champion Muhammad Ali at a charity event at Gleason’s Gym. Above all, Nolberto was a loving and dedicated husband. He was the primary caretaker for his beloved wife, who lives with dementia, and he cared for her with patience, devotion, and steady love. His commitment to her was one of the clearest reflections of the man he was: loyal, dependable, compassionate, and strong. He was a wonderful father to his daughter and two sons, a treasured father-in-law, and a loving grandfather. He was also deeply loved by his sisters, brothers, extended family, and many friends. To those who knew him, Nolberto was authentic and genuine: a man with firm views and strong values, calm in his demeanor, funny in his own way, and firm when he needed to be. He was warm and approachable, offered advice with wisdom, and was a best friend to many. Nolberto had a gift for conversation. Whether the topic was politics, sports, medicine, or what was happening in the world, he could make a conversation meaningful, lively, and unforgettable. He loved all sports, but the New York Yankees held a special place in his heart. A proud Venezuelan American, he also loved to celebrate life. He enjoyed parties, dancing to Gaita Zuliana, a good drink, and most of all, time spent with family. His presence brought energy, humor, and warmth to the people around him, and his memory will continue to live on in the countless stories, conversations, lessons, and moments he shared. Nolberto will be remembered for his devotion to his family, his dedication to helping others, his love of sports and music, his sharp mind, and his authentic spirit. He leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, service, and unforgettable connection. He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Maritza; his daughter, Zulema Wiscovitch, and her husband, Joseph; his son, Nolberto “Tico” Manzanero, and his wife, Carolina; and his son, Enrique “Ico” Manzanero, and his wife, Natalia. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Brandon Manzanero, Anthony Wiscovitch, Sebastian Manzanero, Gabriel Manzanero, Olivia Manzanero, Lucas Manzanero, and Samuel Manzanero. May the Lord grant him eternal rest. Visitation will be held at Roslyn Heights Funeral Home on Friday from 4-8PM. Cremation is private.