Let the family know you care by sharing this tribute.
Donald Charles Mann, of Vero Beach, Florida, passed away peacefully at home on October 12, 2022, at the age of 80.
Donald was born on June 21, 1942, in Elizabeth, NJ to Lillian and Herman Mann. After growing-up in Elizabeth, Don went on to complete his bachelor’s degree at Rutgers University and his postgraduate studies at Seton Hall University. In 1968, Donald married Dorothy Menegus and raised their family in both Totowa and Mountain Lakes, NJ. Together they had three children, Keith Mann (Mara), Megan Hildebrandt (Michael) and Lindsey Kerkela (Leif). After Dorothy’s passing in 1988, Donald worked tirelessly to ensure Keith, Megan and Lindsey were surrounded by love and raised in Dorothy’s spirit and continued to do so throughout his entire life. From this first chapter Don also leaves behind his loving brother-in-law Herb Menegus, his wife Cathy, and beloved niece and nephew Claire and Dominic.
When Don married Sandra Cid in 1997, the second part of his wonderful life began. Donald and Sandy relocated from Mountain Lakes, NJ to Indian River Shores, Florida shortly after their marriage where they immediately became integral members of the local community and found amazing, lifelong friends.
Donald had a very successful 33-year career at Prudential Financial, where he retired from his role of Senior Vice President of Human Resources in 1998. However, Don’s work did not stop there as he went on to volunteer for multiple organizations throughout his retirement. For well over a decade, Don served as a Guardian ad Litem for Indian River County, helping countless children and families. Don also served for many years, in varying capacities, at Literacy Services of Indian River County. Don’s tireless work through this organization had a tremendous impact on the Literacy Services community and he will forever be remembered for his hard work and dedication.
While his life’s work was important to Don, nothing was as precious to him as his family. From traveling with them around the world to spending summers at the Jersey Shore or in Maine, Don loved Sandy and his three children immensely. His love for family only grew as his children went on to marry and have children of their own. Don leaves behind six adored grandchildren, Lucas and Jake (Keith & Mara), Charlie and Caroline (Megan & Michael) and Charlotte and Nora (Lindsey & Leif), all of whom will miss their loving Grandpa terribly.
Lastly, we couldn’t possibly fail to mention the love Don had for his Cavaliers, better known as his “babies.” He adored Brad and Rosie Pie and they loved being hand-fed and spoiled by him on a daily basis!
The loss of Don is immeasurable to his dear friends and cherished family, yet anyone who knew Don will find comfort in their memories of him as a warm, funny, kind, generous and loving man.
A private Celebration of Life to honor Don will be held in November.
In lieu of flowers, the family wishes for anyone interested in memorial donations to please consider Literacy Services of Indian River County, or any charity of your choice. https://www.literacyservicesirc.org/donate/
Arrangements are by Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home and Crematory, Vero Beach.
© 2024 Lowther Funeral Home. All Rights Reserved.
Kathy Sartorius - friend
October 18, 2022, 2:57 pm
What a beautiful tribute! It truly captures what a wonderful man Don was. I am so sorry for your loss. Don was such a big part of so many lives and was so special to all of Megan’s Bucknell friends. Love to you all! Kathy
Pete Walker - Friend
October 19, 2022, 1:42 pm
Don was such a loving husband, father and a great friend to his many colleagues and social buddies. His outreach was recognized and extended to those whose life experiences required mentoring and support. Don exhibited these qualities through his many years as a Guardian Ad Litem and his strong leadership of Indian River County Literacy Services. Don will certainly be missed by all that loved him, knew him or benefited from his caring outreach.
Steve Ross - Business associate at Prudential
October 21, 2022, 5:23 am
Don was a champion of what was right and good in the business world and in the communities that surround it. Happy to have known him in a number of his business and community roles here in New Jersey.
Inez R. Smith (Mrs. Robert W. Smith) - A friend from Prudential.
October 21, 2022, 10:33 pm
Dear Sandy: I was so sad to learn of Don’s passing. I remember him as an energetic, intelligent and friendly guy. May God help you to get through this trying time.
Gail Smith - work colleague from Prudential
October 24, 2022, 3:12 pm
Don was an outstanding leader, executive and Human Resources professional. He was inspiring to work with and motivated people through his leadership, intelligence , charisma and sense of humor. I worked with Don at Prudential. My condolences to Sandy and his family during this difficult time.
Patricia Ledford - .
October 29, 2022, 3:13 pm
I had the privilege of meeting Don & Sandy thru lovely friends of there’s. He was such a very nice man and did alot for the community. RIP.
Jeanette Marable - Business Associate
November 3, 2022, 2:49 pm
Dear Sandy, So sorry for your loss. You have my heartfelt condolences. Don was a wonderful man. One outstanding memory for me is when Don invited a group of Combo 7 retirees to a meeting to form ROCS (Retirees Offering Community Service). ROCS was active from 1995-2020. Don was so caring. May he Rest In Peace.