Eight Bells: Victor Manning

It is with a heavy heart that we let you know that Vic Manning, past US Sunfish Class President, passed away on January 9, 2018 at his home, age 72.  Vic has been one of the Class’ strongest supporters in too many ways to mention on both the international and local scenes.  His love for the Class and its members knew no bounds.

He was always there with a smile and a willingness to help with whatever needed done.  As we sail and see the sunshine sparkle off the water, we will know that Vic’s spirit is with us forever.  He will be so missed.

Please join us in a prayer for Pat Manning and her family who lost someone so very special.

Obituary

Victor Vincent Manning was born in New Orleans to John Albert Manning Jr. and Tommie Clentine Partridge Manning on December 16, 1945. He went to school in Charlotte, North Carolina and married his high school sweetheart, Patricia Ann Pietras on June 18, 1966, in Charlotte. He then entered the US Air Force where he proudly served his country during the Vietnam War. He continued in the Air Force for 22 years in intelligence operations and was awarded numerous decorations and medals including the Meritorious Service Medal, Joint Service Commendation Medal, and Air Force Commendation Medal.

Vic was active in the Austin Yacht Club where he was honored to serve as Vice Commodore in 2001 and Commodore in 2002. He also served in turn as Race Commander, Harbor Commander, and Building and Grounds Commander. Most recently he served on the Membership Committee and the Long Range Planning Committee. Vic was awarded the Blue Duck Trophy in 2002 for most outstanding blooper, the Ol’ Salt of the Club in 2011 for his contributions to the club and sailing, the Jessie McIllroy Smith Bowl in 2012 for outstanding service to yachting and racing achievement, and the Max White Memorial Trophy several times in recognition of outstanding service to the club. In 2017, he was granted life membership to Austin Yacht Club in recognition of his years of outstanding service.

Vic enjoyed competition and raced in the International Sunfish Class Association World Championship Regatta multiple years. He served as United States Sunfish Class Association (USSCA) Masters Coordinator 1993 – 1998, as well as a National Race officer, and as such was the Principal Race Officer for many regattas across the country. He served as the USSCA President 1998 – 2004 and continued as the USSCA Representative for the Southwest Region 2013 – 2017. Vic was an avid educator, trained as a US Sailing Small Boat Instructor, and loved instilling his passion for sailing in others.

Vic is survived by his devoted wife, Pat; his two doting daughters, Jennifer Manning and her husband Richard Varnell, of Austin, TX; and Nicole Manning and his adoring granddaughter, Kayla Manning, of Clifton, TX.