Commander Charles H. McManus, Jr. Passed away on October 5, 2008, at the age of 95, at O’Connor Hospital. Charles Henry McManus, Jr. was born in Newport, RI in 1913 where his father, Charles H. McManus, Sr. was Plumbing Inspector for the city of Newport. (His mother’s name was Jennie Fish McManus). His brothers, George, Albert, Richard, and sister, Jane, preceded him. Charles graduated from Rogers High School in Newport, CA 1931, and, then, attended the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy at King’s Point, NY, from which he graduated in 1935. He was a staunch patriot who served his country from 1935 until 1947. He enlisted in the Merchant Marines at the age of 22, prior to WWII. He enlisted in the Navy volunteering for active duty in 1942. He directed aircraft take offs and landings serving on various aircraft carriers which took him to various places such as Pearl Harbor, Guam, Okinawa, and the Philippines. He retired from active duty in 1947 holding the title of Commander. He remained active in the Navy Reserve until 1955. In 1950, at the request of a former Navy comrade, he moved to Oakland, CA where he met and married his wife of 58 years, Marcia Peterson McManus. They moved to Los Gatos and have continued to live in Santa Clara County. Charles served in the 50’s and 60’s on the Concert Series Advisory Board. He was named distinguished citizen by the San Jose Council during that time. He is the father of Katleen McManus Martin, Kristin McManus Rao, and the late Sean Charles McManus. He is survived by his wife, Marcia, his two daughters, four grandchildren – Shannon McManus Hott, Kim Ohlfs, Benjamin Rao, Alexandra Rao, and three great grandchildren – Sean andBailey Hott, and Jazmyn Robles. The private service will be held at Oak Hill Memorial Park. Memorial contributions preferred: Paralyzed Veterans of America (National Headquarter: 801 18th St., NW, Washington DC 20006-3517; (800) 424 -8200 or (800) 795-4327), Soldiers’ Angels (1792 E. Washington Blvd, Pasadena, CA 91104), or your favorite charity.
