Passed away peacefully with family by his side on January 22, 2026, at the age of 94. Beloved husband of Hermine for over 71 years. Born on December 24, 1931, in Franztal, Yugoslavia to parents Nikolaus and Magdalena Manz. Loving father of Nancy Foglia (John), Eva Bukovac (Andy),
Helene Manz, Steve Manz (Terry). Cherished Ota to John (Katherine), Joseph (Kristen), Andrew (Kealeagh), Alec (Isabelle), James (Leah), Sarah, Stefan (Maya), Adam (Tilley) and 9 great-grandchildren.
Steve began apprenticing as a painter in 1947 in Austria and emigrated to Canada with his parents and grandmother in 1953. He was a prominent figure in Windsor, having founded Manz Painting and Decorating in the 1950’s.
Steve donated frequently to events and charitable organizations in the community and was an integral part of the Teutonia German Club. As a gifted athlete, Steve excelled in cycling and soccer back in Austria and later continued to have success as a leading goal scorer for Teutonia, as he helped them to numerous city championships.
Steve and Hermine spent considerable time at their cottage in Northern Ontario after the sale of the business, enjoying the outdoors and hosting a central point for all their children and grandchildren to enjoy. His humour, playful nature, hard work, and acts of service were appreciated by all he encountered, and his love of music lives on in new generations of family, who are bonded through him to the German music of the 1930’s to 1970’s that Steve constantly loved to play throughout each day.
The family would like to thank the entire staff of “special angels” at AgeCare Royal Oak, Kingsville, for the love and care shown to Steve every day during his stay. In honour of Steve’s wishes, a private family service has taken place. If so desired, memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer Society.
