Requiescat in Pace

Roman Catholic Diocese of Tucson

News Release

November 18, 2006

Most Rev. Manuel D. Moreno, Bishop Emeritus of Tucson, died Friday, Nov. 17, at his home in Tucson in the presence of his family and close friends. A friend who was present said he died at about 10:25 p.m. His youngest grand nieces and grand nephews were at his bedside, singing the hymn, "Come to the Table of Plenty," when the Bishop slipped peacefully away.The Bishop's bed had been placed near the small chapel of his residence.

At the wishes of his family, Bishop Moreno was transported to Tucson Friday afternoon by private ambulance from Banner Good Samaritan Medical Center in Phoenix where he had undergone surgery Monday night to relieve pressure in the brain caused by bleeding.Although the surgery was successful in relieving the pressure, on Wednesday night doctors informed the Bishop's family that there had been renewed bleeding as a result of the prostate cancer that had spread. After consultation with the doctors, the Bishop’s family determined that no further medical treatment was advisable.

Bishop Moreno was admitted to St. Joseph Hospital in Tucson last Sunday after complaining of a severe headache. A decision was made to transport him Sunday night to Banner Good Samaritan Medical Center for further diagnosis and treatment.Bishop Moreno retired for reasons of health in March of 2003. At that time, he revealed that he was suffering from Parkinson disease and cancer of the prostate. He began chemotherapy for the cancer several months ago. Bishop Moreno was 75.

In consideration of the Thanksgiving holiday, the public liturgies (services) of the Rite of Christian Burial will begin on Monday, Nov. 27, and will take place at St. Augustine Cathedral, 192 S. Stone Ave., in Tucson.

Monday, Nov. 2710 a.m. -- Arrival of the body at the Cathedral, followed by visitation. 11:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m., 4 p.m. -- Recitation of the Rosary 7 p.m. -- Vigil (Evening Prayer), followed by visitation until 10 p.m.Tuesday, Nov. 2810 a.m. -- Mass of Christian Burial, followed by burial at Holy Hope Cemetery.

Bishop Moreno is survived by sisters Pilar (Ray) Santana and Juanita (Paul) Updegraff of California and brothers Raymond (Margarite) Moreno of California and Fernando (Nora) Moreno of Marana and by nieces, nephews and grand nieces and grand nephews.