Michael James McManus

Michael James "Jim" McManus, passed peacefully on October 13, 2023. Jim was born on April 3, 1940, to Helen and Jim McManus in Johnson City, NY. Jim graduated from St. Michaels College at the University of Toronto with a degree in engineering. In college, Jim’s successful record in boxing earned him the nickname "Crush", only losing one close fight by decision. It was at the University of Toronto where he fell deeply in love with Constance "Connie" Holmes, whom he married on May 24, 1964.

Jim formed many strong friendships during his careers at American Can Company, Zapata Industries, and Silgan Containers. His work allowed Jim to experience living in various areas across the country, including New York, Puerto Rico, Louisiana, Indiana, Connecticut, and California. Jim was very active in his communities, serving on the Aviation Committee in Danbury, CT, President of the Sun City Grand Board of Directors in Surprise, AZ, and the Democratic Chair of his legislative district in Arizona.

Jim was known for his fierce love of his family. He bragged about his family constantly - in his view he had the best wife, best daughters, best sons-in-law, best grandsons, best sister, best brother, best sister-in-law, etc. He had a great love for animals and never met a dog or cat who didn’t love him in turn. Jim was an extremely kind man with a contagious sense of humor. As a man of strong character, principles, and compassion, Jim touched many lives deeply.

Jim is survived by his wife, Connie McManus, sister, Frances Knorr, brother, Charles "Chuck" McManus, and sister-in-law, Sharon McManus. He is also survived by his daughter, Kim Kelly, son-in-law, Michael Kelly, daughter, Kathleen "Katie" Stewart, son-in-law, Niall Stewart, and daughter, Kristina McManus. He was also the proud grandfather of John Patrick Kelly, Connor Stewart, Brian Kelly, Ryan Stewart, Michael Kelly and Brendan Kelly, and he was "Uncle Jim" to many nieces and nephews.

To have known Jim was to love him, and our lives are blessed by his legacy. A Celebration of Jim's Life will be scheduled at a later time.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Cancer Research Institute or the charity of your choice.