Sebastian 'Ben' C. Manese, 84 of Jersey City, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, April 22, 2020 at Princeton Medical Center.  He was born February 8, 1936 in the Philippines to Benigno and Emiliana Manese. He immigrated to the United States in 1982 where he settled in northern New Jersey with his immediate family. He is survived by 3 sons, a grandson, many nieces, nephews and friends from both America and the Philippines.

Ben cared deeply for his family and friends and was always willing to be there for them.  He never hesitated to help when he could.  He loved his family and tried his best to be a good father, grandfather, father in law, and uncle.

Ben was a very hard working and intelligent man and he passed on his work ethic to his sons.  He spoke multiple languages including Tagalog (his native tongue from the Philippines), English, Spanish, Mandarin and Cantonese. His mother was Filipino and Chinese, so he heard or spoke the languages of those nationalities growing up. He used his ability to speak multiple languages when he worked as a salesman in the Philippines and for the work that he did with hospitals in New Jersey.

Ben will be remembered by different people in different ways.  But most will probably remember him best for what he shared best, his cooking.  He enjoyed feeding people and would cook a feast, even when there were only a few people.  He'd also spend days preparing cherished dishes during Labor Day celebrations at his son's home where he was feeding 40 or even 50 people.  Labor Day was not remembered for hot dogs and burgers, but for the delicious Filipino dishes dad so lovingly prepared.

Rest comfortably dad.  We are glad you are reunited with your parents and siblings.  We love you and we will see you again.

Due to the current pandemic restrictions there will be no immediate gathering in honor of Ben. A private interment will take place at North Crosswicks Cemetery in Hamilton, NJ.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Ben's name to a charity of the donor's choice.