Robert William Manecke, 92, of Newport News, VA, passed away peacefully on Sunday, September 21, 2025. He was born in Renville, Fairfax Village, Minnesota, on March 23, 1933, to Gertrude Biebl Manecke and H.H. Manecke. He grew up on a farm with his seven brothers and sister and remained loyal to his roots as an avid Vikings fan.
After graduating from high school, Bob joined the Navy in 1951. He was stationed in Newport News after the completion of an overseas tour of duty. He joined the Newport News Fire Department and was later promoted to the rank of lieutenant. He retired as the Operations Superintendent of Public Works for the City of Newport News.
He enjoyed many years as a handyman post-retirement. On Wednesday and Friday evenings, Bob could be found with his second family at Manhattan’s sharing a meal, a drink, and good times. He lived life to its fullest, and he was known for his generosity, willingness to help anyone, and enduring quick wit.
Bob is survived by his son, Tim Manecke (Jill); his daughter, Cindy Geiger (Gary); his brothers, Walter Manecke, Tony Kosac, Frank (Pete) Kosac, and Jim Kosac; four grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren; and lifelong friends, Buddy and Shirley Green. He anxiously awaited his reunion with his beloved sidekick, Ruff, at the rainbow bridge.
A celebration of life will be held at Manhattan’s NY Deli and Pub, 601 Thimble Shoals Blvd, Newport News, on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m.
13 Comments
We have such loving memories of Bob and will miss him dearly!
I have known Bob all my life. I love and will miss him very much.
Grandaddy you will absolutely missed and I’ll miss our phone calls deeply. I’ll miss you and I love you always
We’ll miss you Bob , rest in piece.
I love you granddaddy and miss you!!
We love you Dad, you will forever be in our hearts.
We love you Dad, you will forever be in our hearts.
We love Dad, you will forever be in our hearts.
We love you Dad, you will forever be in our hearts.
We love you Dad, you will forever be in our hearts.
We love you Dad, you will forever be in our hearts.
I lost track of Bob a few years ago. Met him when he was doing handy work on the townhouse I bought and we became friendly. Great man and story teller. In later years I knew he slowed down and adopted a fur baby and loved that dog to death. One of a kind and will be missed greatly. Rip Luv ya Bob
I was so sad to hear about Bob’s passing. My heart is broken. I call him from to time and even go see Bob when I was in town visiting my family. Bob’s will always be in my heart. I will miss him and all his jokes. I know this day would come and I know it would be hard. I send my prayers to the his family and other friends. We didn’t make it as husband and wife but we were the best of friends and I thank him for that. Until I see you again. I will always love you. Its not goodbye it’s until we see each other again.