Thomas "Tom" Francis McManus Jr.

Born: March 5, 1928, in Chicago, IL

Died: December 20, 2024 in Denver, Colorado

Thomas Francis McManus Jr., a beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully at the age of 96. Born in Chicago, IL, to Thomas McManus Sr. and Anna Vavra, Tom lived a life marked by service, kindness, and devotion to family.

He proudly served in the Army Air Corps from February 1945 to August 1947, achieving the rank of Sergeant. During his service, he was awarded the WWII Victory Medal and the American Campaign Medal. After returning home, Tom married Ann Babich on June 15, 1951, beginning a loving marriage that lasted for over 67 years until her passing in 2019. Together, they raised two sons, Mike (1952) and John (1956).

Tom earned both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in civil engineering, leading a successful career. He retired from the Denver Fire Department's Fire Prevention Bureau in 1997, leaving a lasting impact through his work. A resident of Southeast Denver for nearly 60 years, Tom was known for his devotion to his community and his faith. He was a devout Catholic and enjoyed reading classical and historical writings, always eager to learn.

A man of vibrant social spirit, Tom looked forward to his regular “guy lunches” with friends and had a remarkable ability to connect with people, bringing joy and laughter wherever he went. In his earlier years, he shared a passion for building race cars with his eldest son, Mike, and watching him race at Englewood Speedway. He also shared his love for craftsmanship by building large-scale airplane models with his younger son, John. These models, still hanging at his home, remain a testament to their time together.

Tom is preceded in death by his parents, his wife Ann, and his sons Mike (2016) and John (2022). He is survived by his cousin James "Jimmy" McManus (Fort Meyer, FL), his grandson Kelly McManus (Yuma, AZ), Kelly’s wife Kaylene, and their children, Tom’s great-grandchildren Torin (6) and Isla (1) McManus, who shares Tom's beautiful blue eyes. Tom is also survived by his daughter-in-law Mary Jo McManus (Pueblo West, CO).

Tom will be remembered for his selfless service to others, his sharp intellect, his infectious sense of humor, his patience, and his unwavering kindness. His warm smile and hearty laugh will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

A visitation for Thomas will be held Thursday, January 9, 2025 from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Olinger Hampden Mortuary & Cemetery, 8600 East Hampden Ave, Denver, CO 80231. A visitation will occur Friday, January 10, 2025 from 9:00 AM to 10:30 AM at Our Lady of the Snow Chapel, 4101 N. Lamar St, Wheat Ridge, CO 80033, followed by a rosary and then a funeral mass. A graveside service will occur Friday, January 10, 2025 from 1:00 PM to 1:30 PM at Olinger Eastlawn Cemetery, 19600 E Smith Rd, Aurora, CO 80011.