A devoted husband, father, grand- father, and friend, James (Jim) Bradley Manro died peacefully on Nov. 23, 2009 at home with his wife, Mary, and son, Greg, by his side. Throughout his life, he was easily approachable with a modest disposition, a quick laugh and a genuine interest in others. He was very much a mentor for his two grandsons, Monte and Oliver, imparting his values and his skills to them. Through the ups and downs of life, and during his five-month ordeal with cancer, he still managed to maintain his sense of humor and his positive spirit.
Born in Minneapolis to Atherton James and Helen Manro on Nov. 7, 1930, Mr. Manro grew up with his younger sister, Jean. He later lived in Alaska during high school, earned his degree in electrical engineering from USC and eventually settled on Mercer Island with his wife, Mary, to whom he was married for 39 years.
Mr. Manro was forever a conscientious, hard-working man, retiring after 33 years as a Boeing engineering manager. Throughout his life, he enjoyed skiing, hiking, camping, birding and sailing. He also masterfully carved and painted Indian totems and masks. Not only did he devote endless hours at his workbench with building and repair projects, but he was always willing to lend a hand to his neighbors. He served as treasurer of the Alumni Board of his fraternity, Theta Xi, at the University of Washington.
Mr. Manro was, above all, a devoted family man. He and Mary shared a very long and endearing love for each other and served as a model couple for all who knew them. Many memorable family celebrations will be fondly remembered. Mr. Manro will be missed by many, but his sincere values, integrity and love for his family will always be remembered.
Mr. Manro is survived by his loving wife, Mary Zell Saltz; son, Gregory; grandsons, Monte and Oliver; their mother, Christine Kelly; sister, Jean Mulkerin; his former wife, Marjorie, five nieces and three nephews.
A memorial celebration of Mr. Manro’s life will be held at 2 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 4, at Emmanuel Episcopal Church, 4400 86th Ave. S.E., Mercer Island. A reception will follow.
Remembrances are suggested to a charity of your choosing.
