The Parkersburg, West Virginia, community and beyond are mourning the loss of Dave Manzo, a beloved athlete, coach, and family man who passed away after a courageous battle with mouth cancer.
Dave was born on March 1, 1959, in Parkersburg, who was known for his dedication, leadership, and love for others.
His passing, shared by his friend Greg Leate on Facebook, has left many who knew him as “Coach Manzo” feeling a deep loss. He was a true legend in sports and life.
Dave Manzo’s legacy began at Parkersburg High School (PHS), where he was a standout three-sport athlete from 1974 to 1977.
Excelling in football, basketball, and baseball, Dave’s athletic prowess was undeniable.
As a quarterback and defensive back on the 1976 State Championship football team, he earned All-State First Team honors and was runner-up for the Kennedy Award, recognizing West Virginia’s top high school football player.
On the baseball diamond, he shone as a center fielder, securing All-State Second Team recognition.
His contributions to PHS athletics also earned him the title of Offensive Player of the Year, establishing his status as a “true and loyal Big Red,” as noted by the Parkersburg High School Alumni for Athletics Facebook group.
Dave’s athletic journey didn’t end with high school. He continued to shine at Fairmont State University, where he played both football and baseball.
His talent on the field earned him Second Team All-Conference honors and the title of Team MVP in football, showcasing his ability to lead and inspire his teammates.
After retiring from playing, Dave became a Coach and Significantly Influenced many Athletes and Students.
His coaching career spanned decades, including two years as a receiver coach at Fairmont State University, 28 years as an assistant football coach at Lake Worth High School in Florida, and 24 years as the head baseball coach at the same school.
His leadership in baseball was particularly remarkable, amassing over 200 wins, five district championships, three regional championships, and eight district runner-up finishes.
Dave’s coaching accolades were numerous. He was named Conference Coach of the Year five times and Area Coach of the Year four times, showing his ability to build winning teams while fostering growth in his players.
In 2013, his contributions to athletics were recognized with his induction into the Hall of Fame, a fitting tribute to a man who dedicated his life to sports and mentorship.
Beyond his impressive athletic and coaching achievements, Dave Manzo was a mentor whose influence extended far beyond the playing field.
Those who knew him describe a man who shaped lives with his guidance, integrity, and compassion.
Zach Nolan, one of his former players, wrote,
“Coach Manzo was a great mentor not only on the football field, but as a man too. His guidance, leadership, and example extended far beyond the game, shaping the character of everyone who had the privilege to learn from him.”
Via Facebook
Debbie Tower Tanguay, a colleague, shared,
“He was such a good man who taught me a lot about being a good teacher. His family and friends will miss him. But the students, whose lives he touched, will forever be thankful to have had him in their lives.”
Via Facebook
Dana Drummond shared this view, noting,
“He was a great coach—educational and entertaining to see in person how he handled players and situations. But he was an even better person and mentor. Guys like Manzo were so helpful to young teachers and coaches like me.”
Via Facebook
Dave’s impact was deeply personal for many.
Chuck Callaway shared a touching memory:
“He was our Earth Space Science teacher in 2002. I asked Audrey to be my girlfriend right outside of his classroom. She and I have been happily married for 12 years and have three beautiful children. He will always be a part of our story.”
Via Facebook
Chris Blackwell, whose son played under Dave’s coaching, wrote,
“R.I.P. Coach Manzo. So thankful that our paths crossed again, this time for the positive, you being part of the coaching staff that’s on the field with my son now. Seeing the full circle come around just hit different.”
Via Facebook
At the heart of Dave’s life was his family.
A loving father to his two children, Jessica and Andrew, Dave brought the same care and dedication to his family that he showed in his professional life.
His warmth and commitment to those he loved were evident to all who knew him, making his loss even more profound for his family and close friends.
The News of Dave’s Passing, Following his Battle with Mouth Cancer, was Shared with Heavy Hearts
In 2022, Greg Leate had posted a heartfelt plea on Facebook, writing,
“My friend Dave Manzo needs your prayers. He’s dealing with cancer of the mouth. Please pray for God to give him the strength to fight this disease.”
Via Facebook
When Dave’s fight came to an end, Greg announced,
The community showed its love and sympathy for Dave, highlighting how much he meant to those around him.
Coach Dave Manzo’s life was one of passion, dedication, and service.
From his days as a star athlete at Parkersburg High School to his storied coaching career in Florida, he inspired generations of athletes, students, and colleagues.
His legacy lives on in the championships he won, the lives he touched, and the love he shared with his family and community.
As the Parkersburg and Lake Worth communities come together to honor his memory, one thing is clear: Coach Dave Manzo will never be forgotten.
Rest in peace, Coach. Your spirit will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know you.
