Broke the Mold: Tribute to Dave Manners

… Love is a power greater than death,
Just like the songs and stories told.
And when she built you, brother, she broke the mold.
(Springsteen, B.  “Terry’s Song ”. Magic. September 25, 2007)

Our friend.

Our mentor.

Our very own rock star.

Educator of Mindfulness.

Loving partner.

Inspirational, devoted father.

Dave has left us, far too soon and unprepared, but with his legacy sound and his empathy with others sincere. One of his closest friends, on his passing, reminds us that  “… one of a million things that made Dave so special was his ability to harvest connections of the soul.” 

A poem by Cole David Manners, his youngest son:

Papa
Swirly, Curly Hair,
So Bright, So Bright
I wish I could see
You one more night.

Camera Man, Coffee Man,
Music Man, Helpful Man.

Dad,

I’m crying as
I write this poem.
And say it one more time:
“I Love You, Papa.”

As I say those words,
I am out of tears to cry with.

I love the way
You joked with us,
I wish you could today.

Even though you’re
Not here with us,
I still know you are.

You are a part of me
That will never fade away.

Thank you
For all you’ve done,
I am so proud to be your son.

Kind,
Loving,
Nice,
Caring,
Helpful,
All Describe you.

I could say many more ways,
Though I want to tell you,
Most importantly,
Trust me,
WE LOVE YOU!



David Vincent Manners  |  September 17, 1968 – January 24, 2021

Please join us in support of his wife, Tiffany, and his children:
          Liam (13)
          Cole (11)
          Aidia (10)

Today, tomorrow, and in the years ahead.

Yeah, we'll fill this house with all the love
All that heaven will allow.
(Springsteen, B.  “All That Heaven Will Allow ”. Tunnel of Love.  October 9, 1987)