Jack K. McManigal

Jack Keith McManigal, 95, of Omaha, NE, passed away on May 1, 2025, at Florence Home, surrounded by his loved ones. He left behind a legacy of love, faith, and unwavering dedication to family. He was a man of quiet strength, deep compassion, and steadfast devotion, a guiding presence for all who knew him.

Born on November 26, 1929, in Sioux City, IA, to Harland and Minnie McManigal; Jack embodied a spirit of service and resilience from a young age. At 18, he joined the U.S. Navy and proudly served aboard the destroyer USS Alfred E. Cunningham during the Korean War, manning the big guns and forging memories that would become treasured stories for generations. A proud veteran, Jack found joy in sharing tales of his time overseas, his experiences shaping the wisdom he passed down to his children and grandchildren.

Upon returning home, Jack worked as a truck driver before moving to Omaha, NE, where he settled into a long and fulfilling career as a television technician. For 36 years, he worked with dedication at Aksarben TV, his skill and reliability earning him the respect of colleagues and customers alike. In 1994, he retired, shifting his focus to what mattered most-family, faith, and the simple joys that enriched his life.

It was family that truly defined Jack's world. In March of 1971, thanks to the matchmaking efforts of his cousin Sandy, he met the love of his life, Elmira ("Ellie"). Just three months later, on June 12, they were married, embarking on a beautiful journey of love, laughter, and unwavering devotion. Their greatest joy arrived in the form of their daughters-Beth in March of 1972, followed by Mary Kay just 20 months later. Jack embraced fatherhood with boundless love, his role as a parent shaping his happiest moments and deepest purpose.

Jack's faith was the cornerstone of his life. A dedicated Christian, he served as a deacon and elder at Benson Church of Christ, living his values with humility and kindness. His passions were many-fishing in quiet waters, whittling intricate WWII airplanes and ships from wood, expanding his knife collection, painting, solving puzzles with methodical patience, and tending to his yard with care. But above all, he found his greatest fulfillment in time spent with his daughters and grandchildren, offering steady guidance, laughter, and unconditional love.

Described by all who met him as a truly sweet and gentle man, Jack's generosity of spirit knew no bounds. He was the glue that held his family together, ever ready to lend a helping hand, always steady in his kindness. He leaves behind a devoted family who cherished him deeply: his daughters, Beth (James) Bilodeau and Mary Kay (Wafi) McManigal-Maksoura; his grandchildren, Jaylyn McManigal and Jean-Luc Bilodeau; and many beloved nieces and nephews, grand nieces and nephews, and great-grand nieces and nephews.

Jack is preceded in death by his beloved wife Elmira, his son Thomas McManigal, his parents Harland and Minnie McManigal, his siblings and their spouses, Pauline and Nino La Scala, Mary Ann and Marv Kastner, Arthur McManigal, Patricia and John Kruse, his nephew John Kruse, and his nieces Paula (La Scala) Rhea and Teresa (La Scala) Messenbrink.

Though his passing leaves a profound void, there is solace in knowing he is reunited with Ellie, his siblings, and his loved ones in heaven, embraced by their love and watching over those he held dear.

Jack is being cremated per his request, and the family will hold a celebration of life in June to allow all of his loved ones to come together in remembrance. His memory will endure in the hearts of all who were blessed to know him.