Jon Manafort Passes Away
Jon Manafort
July 4, 1946 – December 4, 2024
U.S. Veteran
“Success is no accident. It is hard work, perseverance, learning, studying, sacrifice and most of all, love of what you are doing.”
Well-known family construction company and community leader, Jon Manafort, died unexpectedly December 4, 2024 at his home in Old Saybrook.
Manafort, husband of Elisa (Pons) Manafort, and father to Jason A. Manafort (Sandra) and Justin A. Manafort (Tabitha) and six grandchildren and son of the late Anthony Manafort and Rose (Forlini) Gallo, was part of the third generation to head the Plainville-based, Manafort Brothers Inc., an award-winning, international business that grew under his quiet but effective guidance.
Born in New Britain, CT, Manafort was a 1965 graduate of James Hillhouse High School in New Haven and a U. S. Army veteran. He, along with his late brother, Jim and cousin, Frank, became the third generation to join the family business, originally known as the New Britain Wrecking Company. The three expanded the demolition business, adding concrete, excavation site work, highway, blasting, trash removal, environmental remediation and nuclear decommissioning to its operations. Known for his interest in new technologies and business practices, Manafort, dubbed “the problem solver,” used his talents and drive to help establish the business as a major player in the industry. Noteworthy projects including the Connecticut casinos, the construction of many highway roads and bridges, a host of major, city development-related building implosions in Hartford, and the Madison Hotel in Boston were among major undertakings that catapulted the company’s stellar reputation. Within hours of the 9/11 terrorist tragedy in New York City, Manafort and his crews were on the scene, spending months helping with the Twin Tower demolition and cleanup efforts. Manafort was also instrumental in the transition of the Manafort companies to the fourth and fifth generation family members and key employees which has led them to national and international success.
Always thinking about “what’s next” for the family business and considered the visionary for the company and its future generations, Manafort founded Connecticut Waste Processing with two trucks which led to the current CWPM, a multi-state waste removal company that continues as a major enterprise today. He also owned and operated Island Cove Marina in Old Saybrook, and formerly owned Lady Katharine Cruises in Connecticut.
But it was not “business only” for the capable and mild-mannered businessman who loved the water, NASCAR racing, puzzle making, crafting boat and car models, reading and tapping his heart when it came to helping others.
When he and his cousin Frank first heard about the Kyle Petty Charity Ride Across America, a non-profit established by the famed NASCAR driver, the two immediately bought Harley Davidson motorcycles and began what would be an annual 2,100-mile ride, raising money for Petty’s Victory Junction Camp for children with chronic medical conditions. Manafort, who served on the non-profit board of directors, participated every year. When his two sons, Jason and Justin, became old enough, they joined him on the ride, making it not only a cross-country trip about giving, but one about family time.
Manafort also helped establish the Manafort Family Foundation, another arm of the family business that, since its inception, has donated more than $2 million to local charities. Known for his commitment to his New Britain and Plainville communities, Manafort was always the first to step up when a school, youth sports program or area organization needed some help with their projects. Testament to his giving can be seen in many places, including nearly every high school athletic field in Central Connecticut where a Manafort sign is hung in appreciation of donations, and places like New Britain’s Hospital for Special Care.
Among the many awards and accolades he was presented over the years include the prestigious National Demolition Association Lifetime Achievement Award.
Described as unassuming, talented, generous and committed to the business and his family, Manafort was a gentleman with a deadpan sense of humor who lived his life to the fullest. He raced stock cars at the former Plainville Stadium and that love of racing continued throughout this life. He never missed a Daytona 500 race, a ‘must go’ event that began as the “family vacation.” An avid reader, his favorite author was John D. McDonald. A “gadget freak” who as “Puzzle King” loved that hobby, he also enjoyed music from the 70’s especially Steely Dan and Boz Scaggs. A yachting enthusiast who started a charter company, Manafort was well-known for his passion for the sea and was featured in a piece in Yachts International magazine.
Hard-working, fair, compassionate and driven, Manafort was the consummate businessman, but beyond that, his biggest smiles and most precious accomplishments were centered on his family and friends.
Born on July 4th, 1946, his annual birthday party on Block Island, aboard his yacht, was a get-together he looked forward to every year. Surrounded by family, including his cherished wife of 55 years, his sons, their wives, Sandra and Tabitha and grandchildren Evan, Jonny, Julia, Samantha, Justin Jr. and Tommi Rose, he was happy and content. He could not think of a better way to celebrate both his birthday and his country, which he loved and respected unequivocally
Besides his wife, sons, daughters-in-law and grandchildren, he leaves a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends who will miss him greatly.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Thursday, December 12, 2024 at 11 a.m. at St. Ann Church, 101 North Street, New Britain, CT 06051. Burial will follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery, 1141 Stanley St., New Britain. There are no calling hours. Erickson-Hansen Funeral Home, 411 S. Main St., New Britain, is handling arrangements.
In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to the Kyle Petty Charity Ride Inc., 10720 Sikes Place, Suite 145, Charlotte, North Carolina 28277.
Mass of Christian Burial
St. Ann Church
Thursday, December 12, 2024
11:00 AM
101 North Street
New Britain, CT 06051
Burial
St. Mary Cemetery
Thursday, December 12, 2024
1309 Stanley St.
New Britain, CT 06051
Erickson-Hansen Funeral Home
411 South Main Street
New Britain, CT 06051
860-229-5676
Sources: Erickson-Hansen Funeral Home