MANNY

Emmanuel George Stefanakis (1971-2024)

Emmanuel "Manny" Stefanakis, 52, passed away on February 18th in Morristown, New Jersey.

A Memorial Visitation will be held on Saturday, Feb. 24th from 2 to 5 pm at the Paul Ippolito-Dancy Memorial, 9 Smull Ave, Caldwell, NJ.

Son of Mary Stefanakis and George Stefanakis, he was born in Jersey City and raised in Weehawken, New Jersey. He graduated from Weehawken High School, where he played football and wrestled. Manny had a vast array of talents. He worked as a technology consultant as a young man, before dabbling in construction, and then finally finding his passion as a small business owner where he designed and built websites for other small business owners. He always found great joy in helping others build their own company and find their own success. When he was not working, he could be found with his family and friends, singing and dancing to one of his favorite bands, U2 or Bon Jovi, or at the casino in Atlantic City, running the Black Jack Tables.

Manny had the ability to find friends and connect with people wherever he went. He had a vibrant and contagious energy that others congregated around, particularly on the casino floor. He loved all things Greek, including his family's famous olive oil and housemade raki. He was incredibly proud of his heritage. He also loved to travel, spending time in Cancun, Mexico, one of his favorite destinations.

He is survived by his three children, Nathaneal Stefanakis (mother Sarah Stefanakis), Dwight and Lauren Stefanakis (mother Clelia Anna Dinocera), his brother, Christopher, and sister-in-law Michele Stefanakis, and their two children, Vanessa and Chris Jr. He will join his beloved Uncle Stefano in heaven, along with those who have preceded him.

While Manny was sick for many years prior to his passing, his spirit always stayed true. His memory and legacy will live on as he continues his journey to heaven. In the great words of Bono, "I believe in the kingdom come. Then all the colours will bleed into one. Bleed into one, But yes, I'm still running."

Run on Manny. We all love you.

In lieu of flowers, the family prefers donations be made in Manny's honor to The Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration at https://www.theaftd.org/get-involved/ways-to-give/.