To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Greg Sacco DSP (Ret.)
February 8, 2025
Harry was always a friend and gentleman. God Bless
Frank G Heron
February 8, 2024
Its been 8 years since Harry's passing and I still think of him often. He was always the epidemy of the great cop. Rest in Peace Chief!
Frank G Heron
LCDR USN (Ret)
Former Sgt Wilmington Police
Anne Lamborn
February 8, 2023
Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one today and always.
Rich Brown
February 8, 2022
I still can´t believe he´s gone. Such a great man and super chief of police. Believe me he´s missed.
Shirley Slaughter
February 8, 2021
Harry was An honorable man, he was a leader he taught young man how to succeed in their career as a police officer. Harry overall was a beautiful person.
Greg Sacco
February 8, 2021
Chief was a great guy who worked with many other Departments while Chief and before. He is omeone you would br proud to call a friend.
Frank Heron
February 8, 2021
Great man! It was a honor to work with Harry while with the Wilmington Police.
Judy Stecher-Campbell
February 26, 2016
My deepest, heartfelt sympathy to you Millie, Sue and Lin. May the Lord show one set of footprints as He carries you all through this dark journey of grief! Rest In Peace Cousin Butch!! You were the most gentle, humble, compassionate giant of a man. You deserve all the accolades and honors extended to you for all you gave to others and a life well lived. You were the best cousin to me growing up and your warm hugs so great! You deserve the best spot in God's garden! Will miss you dearly!
Frank Larry
February 23, 2016
Harry was such an impressive person. I got to know him just by sitting in Rodney Square with some of his friends from the WPD having lunch on one of the benches. He was friendly and he always made me feel welcome. He was quick to introduce me to his friends and always mentioned that I worked at the Federal Court. Harry was all class. He could fit in anywhere with anybody. It was a long time since seeing Harry and I wish that were not the case. My condolences to Harry's family and his many close friends. Rest in peace my friend.
Jack and Trina Hogan
February 20, 2016
Dear Millie,
We were so sad to learn of Harry's death. What a wonderful role model he was to family and friends. Peace and Love to you all.
Fran Trzuskowski
February 19, 2016
Millie: You and your family are in our prayers. We presently are out of town and just received word of Harry's death. I have been reminiscing with Ann, Harry's football career at Sallies.
Ann and Fran Trzuskowski
John and Joyce Becker
February 19, 2016
So very sorry to hear of Harry's passing. Our Heartfelt sympathy to Millie and Family. It was an Honor to have know Harry. Rest in Peace, Harry. job well done. John and Joyce Becker
ed pankowski
February 18, 2016
Honored to be at viewing and Mass of Christian Burial for the Chief......an emotional tribute today for a great man and friend for many years...R.I.P. Harry !
Greg Moore
February 18, 2016
Very sorry to hear this news about the passing of an old friend. I worked with Harry at DuPont during the really good years. One could always count on harry for an honest opinion on any topic and he always stood by his friends. More than once he helped me out and I won't forget him.
Greg Moore
Samson
February 18, 2016
Salesianum Salutes You Harry/Butch,
Love to Millie and girls...
God Bless,
Samson Family
Tracy Breslin Filliben
February 18, 2016
My deepest condolences to Sue, Lin, Mrs. Manelski, Debbie, Dave and your families. Mr. Manelski came to all our Oak Grove games and was truly an inspiration to me. He gave me pointers and congratulations after each game. My parents didn't come to the games, so it was so nice to see Manelski in the stands. I have so many fond memories.
Sincerely,
Tracy Breslin Filliben
Michael Szczerba
February 17, 2016
A salute to "The Chief" and my sympathy to Mrs. Manelski and family. As one of "Harry's 18" form the 1978 Wilmington Police Academy, I am grateful to Chief Manelski for the opportunity he granted me and for his support, mentorship and friendship throughout the years. I am only one of several hundred officers who were fortunate to serve under Chief Manelski's exemplary leadership. A much deserved eternal rest Chief, for a job well done and a life well lived.
Barb Shippy
February 17, 2016
Millie, Lin and Sue, I am so sorry to read about your husband and dad's passing!
I am unable to be in person for you at the viewing or the service. But, know, my thoughts and prayers are with you! I am sure you have mountains of wonderful memories to lean on during this time!
ed pankowski
February 17, 2016
R.I.P. Chief....May Peace be with you now.......as it always was
Ed Pankowski
February 17, 2016
We all have lost a Great Policeman..and Man..Harry a mentor to me as I started my legal career in 1973 as a Prosecutor and good friend for 40+ years....my roommate also on couple ND trips to South Bend....a true hero..and humanitarian ....and best ever WPD Chief...a natural leader who led by his good example and good works..a pillar of our Community...May Peace be with you Millie and your Family
John Brown
February 17, 2016
A SALUTE
TO: THE FAMILY OF (Chief Harry Francis Manelski)
NOTICE, CHANGE OF ADDRESS
(Harry) would like all of you to know that she has a new address.
Please be advised that I, (Harry), have moved. I received a call from God, the commander-in-chief, a few days ago. He informed me that my new home was completed. All of you knew that I had been negotiating a change of location. I have been sending up my timber, packing up, and getting ready to go. I knew that my home needed some finishing touches and that the commander-in-chief, Jesus Christ, had to inspect it and give me final approval. Well, on (Friday February 12th 2016), He let me know that my new home was completed and it was ok to move in. So, He told me to go ahead and officially change my address.
Well, my new home is completed. What a sight it is. It is located on an exclusive estate area just behind the twelve pearly gates. The streets of the city are pure gold. Every day is Sunday and I can walk around heaven all day.
I lived in a building built by man for (76) years. But, my new home is so much better. There is peace, joy, no pain, no heartaches, and no disappointments. I can now dine at the Master's table and listen to the heavenly choir singing O Happy Day.
I lived, for the day just to hear my God say, Well done, thy good and faithful servant
I have my personal designer to fit me with my own white robe, shoes and wings. I could go on and on about my new home, but instead, I am going to pray that each of you will move here someday and I will see you then. But, before I go, let me give you my new address located on the corner, of
Forever Street & Hallelujah! Boulevard, God's Town, Heaven
Respectfully Submitted, Master Corporal John Brown, Retired W.P.D. 1980 to 2014
May God Bless the Family
February 17, 2016
Harry was the Chief of Chiefs. I was lucky to meet him when I was in high school and he has served as a positive role model for me and many others on the Wilmington Police Department. He represented all that is good in life. To the Manelski family, I offer my deepest sympathy and prayers.
RIP Chief
February 17, 2016
Sorry to hear of the passing of Chief Manelski. He was a great man, leader, and pillar in the community. He was a mentor to many including me.
Retired DSP Colonel Aaron Chaffinch
Don Palmatary Sr
February 17, 2016
He will be sadly missed. He was a great Chief, Boss, and more than anything a very good friend. Harry, RIP and say hi to Janice for me. Pops
John Boraski
February 17, 2016
Harry was always a good friend to all of us from St Elizabeth's and Sallies. God Bless.
David Singleton
February 17, 2016
Harry was the absolute best. I've known him for +/- 40 years, but during the years that he was chief of police and I was Mayor McLaughlin's chief of staff I probably saw Harry more often than I saw my wife. He was smart, wise, fair and courageous. I'm so sorry to learn that he's left us.
Carolyn Odell
February 16, 2016
I was so so sorry to hear of Harry's death. He was a pillar in the community and yet so humble! My prayers for Millie, kids and grandchildren. So sorry I cannot be there as I am away! Love to all
Carolyn Stecher Odell
Frank G Heron
February 16, 2016
Great Policeman, great leader, great yet humble man.
Diana Herb
February 16, 2016
God be with all of his family!!!R.I.P. So sorry to hear about your loss, keep the faith & God bless everyone!!
Claudette and Family McCool
February 16, 2016
Harry was a great guy, we all loved him and will miss him. The McCool Family
February 16, 2016
To the Manelski family, I was so sad to hear of Chief Manelski's passing. As has been said by many, many people, he was a great leader,a great cop, and more importantly, a great family man and human being. May God bless Harry and the entire Manelski family.
Rich Kilmon and Family
Elizabeth Bogert Losito
February 16, 2016
My prayers for the entire Manelski family; I am very sorry for your loss. Harry was such a nice guy; we'd often talk when I was doing flowers for the Hotel. May God hold him in the Palm of his Hand...
Ed Mort Jr.
February 16, 2016
Chief Manelski was the epitome of a Police Officer. He wore the Badge with Pride and Integrity. We have lost one of the best. RIP Brother.
February 16, 2016
My last year as City Solicitor was Harry's first year as Chief. He was simply the best. My heart-felt sympathy goes out to his wife and daughters. His ws a successful liffe well-lived, and my life was the because of the opportunity to know and to work with him.
Dave Swayze
Denise Haley
February 16, 2016
Mrs. M...you and Harry were like second parents to me in high school...Susie and Lin I am so sorry for your loss. Prayers and hugs to all of you.
John Meadows
February 16, 2016
My sincere condolences to the Manelski family. I knew Harry since the Wilmington police academy 1961, He will be missed.
Donald Bozman
February 16, 2016
Millie and Family: So sorry to hear about Harry. He was a fine fellow officer and a close personal friend. I have many fond memories of good times together. May he rest in peace. Donald Bozman (Retd.Insp.
jeanette finerty
February 15, 2016
millie&family harry will be missed by everyone that knew him.he was a friend&neighbor to me god bless
Jim Luciano Sallies '61
February 15, 2016
RIP Harry. He was a great quarterback and a nice guy. Condolences to his family.
Gregg Perry
February 15, 2016
Sue and family,
Saddened to learn of your loss. May your grief be softened and shortened by all the warm and loving memories you have with and about your Dad. Wishing your family all the best
Sincerely,
Gregg Perry
Sylvia Devenney-Westergard
February 15, 2016
With heart felt sympathy to Mildred and family from an old Union Street neighbor...
Sylvia Devenney Westergard
Nicole Harris
February 15, 2016
It saddens me to read this. As I only new him for a very brief period, the time I did share with him will forever be dear to me. My deepest condolences are with his family.
Glenn Kresge
February 15, 2016
Harry was a great man who was truly a great leader and public servant. He was one of the good guys that really made a difference in many peoples lives. I pray that God will comfort the Manelski family. He will be missed by many.
Deb Sterndale
February 15, 2016
I knew Harry from his days at DuPont as head of Security and had the privilege of interacting with him on several occasions. He was a true professional! It was my pleasure to have worked with him.
Sheila Flocco (May)
February 15, 2016
Please accept my sincere condolences to the Manelski family. We were neighbors in Canby Park for many many years. I remember them all with great fondness.
Michael Nardozzi
February 15, 2016
Never had to look for Harry when facing danger. You knew he would always be right next to you. We survived 67 and 68 and had some great times at WPD. We worked together many years and his officers would follow him into any situation without hesitation. A great man to work for. Always got a warm greeting whenever we would meet. He will be missed. Deepest sympathy to the entire Manelski Family.
Sheila Flocco (May)
February 15, 2016
Please accept my sincere condolences to the Manelski family. We were neighbors in Canby Park for many many years.
Terry & Jane Inman
February 15, 2016
Thought the world of Harry and will miss him. We send our deepest sorrow Millie.
Mary Lou Monsen-Evans
February 15, 2016
God Bless All of You. Harry was a great guy. Had all kinds of loving thoughts from the time we were kids in Canby Park, St. E's, Basketball on the corner. . . Will miss, especially at Ursuline games.
Howard Jones
February 15, 2016
I offer my deepest condolences to Sue, Bill, Will, and Kailyn, and to Lin's family as well. Mr. Manelski was widely-known and well-respected, and may he rest in peace.
David Smith Jr
February 15, 2016
Our condolences to the Manelski family.
Joe Smigielski
February 15, 2016
My condolences to the Manelski family. Harry was a great guy & neighbor at Canby Park. May he rest in peace. Take care.
bob mitchell
February 15, 2016
deepest condolences for an old sallies and St Elizabeth buddy. Be well Millie
Bill Wolhar
February 15, 2016
Dear Millie and Franny. I'll never forget Harry. He bought my first car, a turquoise '54 Chevy. Every time I saw him he would say how much he wished he still had it. Franny, I miss you and all the great times with Gene back in the good old days. I love you all and please accept my sincere sympathies. Bill Wolhar, Port Charlotte, Fl
William Reiter II
February 15, 2016
Millie - no one was better than Harry at motivating, encouraging and supporting those of us who were privileged to work under Harry's leadership. He is/was one of a kind....a friend to everyone. God Bless
Eugene Mitchell
February 15, 2016
I will always remember the kindness that the Chief extended to me during my time working in DuPont security.
Dave Olsen
February 15, 2016
Millie, Lynn and Sue
You all are in our constant thoughts and prayers.
Dave and Kathy Olsen
Dean Vietri
February 15, 2016
Millie, My condolences, thoughts and prayers are extended to you and your family. You know how I felt about the "Chief". From serving as his Police Cadet at age 19 and as recently as this Christmas, I loved being in his presence. Harry was my "Johnny Unitas" and I am grateful that I was able to tell him that at the F.O.P. party this past December. Harry was a tremendous Leader, he stood proud and professional and made everyone around him want to do the same. There have been and there are still many outstanding Police Officers in the Wilmington Police "Family", but there can only be one Quarterback of that "All Star" team and that is Harry, Our Chief....My Chief! GOD BLESS!!!
James DeCarlo
February 15, 2016
R I P Chief. He was a leader for sure. I remember when he was Sergeant, He always checked, when we crossed paths, that my shoes were highly shined. He was a proud leader. Always had good thought of him and was happy when he got Chief of Polce.
Doris Marsilii
February 15, 2016
We write our legacy by that which we leave behind in the hearts of those we have known and loved. Harry has written much in the hearts of his family and friends while living life with integrity and passion. Eternal rest grant unto him, oh Lord, and may perpetual light shine upon him. May his soul and the souls of all the faithful departed rest in peace. Amen. May you and your children hold fast and don't let go of the hope you have as you experience this Lenten season of your lives, that though Good Friday comes, so does Easter morning. God Bless.
February 15, 2016
Harry was the greatest football players that Sallies ever had. He is truly worthy of being inducted into the Salesianum Hall of Fame in Sports. We attended St. Elizabeth grade School together. Millie, you married a truly great man.
Judy Kurland-Spielberg
February 15, 2016
Millie: I was saddened to hear of Harry's passing. What a great guy! I remember working with him in the late '60's at WPD. He was a good friend.
Bob Myers
February 14, 2016
To the Minowski family my heartfelt condolances.
Gregory Sacco
February 14, 2016
The Chief was well respected, liked and served Wilmington and Delaware with honor. It wad a pleasure to know him and what he represented..
Ed Stecher
February 14, 2016
Harry and Millie will always have a special place in my heart! My family will always hold dear the many good times we had at his parents house in canby park.
Harry was the "The Chief" both in his public and private life.
I grieve for Millie's loss of a beloved husband and her family's loss of a devoted and loving father and grand father.
Jose Ortiz
February 14, 2016
RIP Chief, a great person, great leader, very proud to have served with WPD under his command. Our deepest sympathy to the family. Jose & Ana Ortiz
Joyce & Larry Zutz
February 14, 2016
So sorry we will miss honoring this special man, our thoughts and prayers are with you all during this difficult time.
John Carr
February 14, 2016
My deepest sympathy, and prayers to the Manelski family. Chief Manelski was an awesome chief. I worked under his leadership up until he retired. The one main thing I loved about him was that he knew everybody by their first name. R.I.P. Chief.
Mary Thursby Temple
February 14, 2016
Dear Millie, Lynn & Sue
Sorry to hear about Mr. Manelski's passing. I will always remember those good old days at Padua. Your dad was special and I will never forget. Your family is in my prayers.
Susan & Rick Adams
February 14, 2016
Dear Millie, Lin, Sue & Family - We were so very sorry to hear of Harry's passing. He was a wonderful man that we were very proud to have known. He was always there when you needed him. The long-standing friendship between our families is something we are so thankful for. May your faith bring you peace and strength.
Stan & Alma Friedman
February 14, 2016
Millie, Lin and Sue. Our hearts are broken to hear of Harry's passing. So glad we got special time at the Retirement Dinner in December. We loved him deeply and love all of you as well. We will be driving up to be with you on Wednesday and Thursday. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Jerry Capone
February 14, 2016
I enjoyed working with Harry in Mayor McLaughlin's administration. If he wasn't a Police Chief in real life, he could have played one in the movies. He was perfect for the part.
My condolences to his family,
Chris Camac
February 14, 2016
Millie and the family are in our prayers, world lost a great man
February 14, 2016
Harry was the best, class gentleman and leader!
Pam Frank
February 14, 2016
Dear Millie,
My heartfelt sympathy to you and your family. I wish I would have had the privilege of knowing him. If there is anything you need, please don't hesitate to ask.
Sincerely,
Pam Frank
Leo B Magee Sr
February 14, 2016
I had the pleasure of Harry's Friendship for the past 5 years after meeting at Winterthur. He was one of the few people that fit the word "Chief". Many are given that title, few fill those shoes like Harry. We had a great time together and I always looked forward to seeing him. Hand salute....2, RIP my friend
His old Dupont Security Family
February 14, 2016
Millie and family,
We were so sorry to hear of Harry's passing. To all of us he was our leader, mentor and friend. He was always available to us.... He was our hero! He will be missed. Prayers are with you.
Rita Crowley
February 14, 2016
Harry will always be deeply missed and admired by the Crowley an Draper families. My father, Bill Draper, served with him until my father's untimely death at age 43. My brother Bill Draper, husband George Crowley and I were all honored to serve under him at WPD. He was always a man of honor, great sense of humor, and a leader with an utmost character of pride and leadership. Our love to your entire family.
Rita Draper Crowley
Don and Donna Nordmeyer
February 14, 2016
God's choicest blessings and enduring comfort to family
Bill Lamphere
February 14, 2016
To a great man my sincere condolences to his family and friends. RIP.
Jackie Kramarck-Murphy
February 14, 2016
To Millie and her daughters, grandchildren, Harry's siblings, and the rest of the family. God has called home one of the best. First met Harry through family, then had the privilege of working with him at DuPont. What a wonderful man he was. Loved by all who knew him. Treasure the wonderful memories he left you with. His love will remain in your hearts forever. As God embraced him as he entered heaven, may God embrace his loved ones here on earth and comfort them.
Sam Waltz
February 14, 2016
Sandi & I send along our deepest prayers to the Manelski Family for "the peace that passeth understanding." Harry was a wonderful individual. We knew each other in passing when he was at the WPD, but really became friends when he joined the DuPont Co where we worked together, and even moreso when I had the opportunity to mentor Lin when she joined DuPont. A wonderful family, and a great guy! Harry will be missed!!
George E Lamborn Jr
February 14, 2016
Thoughts ad Prayers are with you, Millie and the family. When Harry and I were in high school we played against each other I was the nose guard for Wilm High my aim was to take Harry down; the years that I worked with Harry he always said he dread coming up against me. The years I spend working with him or as in later years working for him were the greatest; there will never be another chief to match him.
The Gildea family
February 14, 2016
Our condolences go out to you and your family. With deepest sympathy. Our prayers go out to you. GOD Bless.
Ramon Rodriguez
February 14, 2016
We lost a real hero, a good friend to everybody. Words alone cannot begin to express the admiration I have felt over the years to a great "Cops cop", I have had two heros in my life, my brother Nick and Harry F. Manelski. Rest in Peace friend.
Anne R Lamborn
February 14, 2016
RIP Harry until we meet again. You will be missed by many.
February 14, 2016
Manelski Family,
Please accept our deepest. Harry was a great cheif, leader, mentor and friend. He will be missed.
Col. (Ret) Jack Cunningham]
NCCPD
Keith Saulsbury
February 14, 2016
I was very sorry to hear of Mr Manelski's passing. he was such a good friend of my families for many years. my sincere condolences.
Richard Brown
February 14, 2016
Millie so sad so sad Chief was a cops cop. I will never forget the first time I met Harry, he was my street Sargent. I had a instant respect for him, his fondness for his men was top notched. This made him have respect from all who new and worked for him.
Words can't describe how I feel. A piece of life has gone.
Respectfully Richard Brown and family
Joanne Leigh
February 14, 2016
To Harry's Family
My sincere and heartfelt condolences for your loss. I was so sorry to hear about Harry. I had the distinct honor of working with Harry as co-chair during the McDonald Championship at the DuPont CC. Harry was a true professional, and his kindness and respect to all who worked with him was truly inspirational. His love for his family was well know by all. Working and knowing Harry and the brotherhood of police professionals will forever be remembered by this friend. May you be comforted by wonderful memories and the prayers of Harry's friends. May he rest in peace.
February 14, 2016
Sorry to hear of your loss. My father , Jesse , and Harry were friends. In sympathy and prayers,
John J Samluk & Family
February 14, 2016
Sorry to hear of your loss. Harry and my father, Jesse, were good friends. In sympathy and prayers,
John J Samluk and Family
Susan Episcopo Boyer
February 14, 2016
We are so sorry for the loss of your dad, father, husband and all around great man!! We wil keep all of you in our prayers.
Susan Episcopo-Boyer and all of the Episcopo family.
February 14, 2016
Millie and Family, I am very sorry to see of your husband passing. My condolences to you and yours.
Warren
Children's Farm--Townsend DE.
Arnie Sher Samson
February 14, 2016
Manelski Family,
Salesianum had latin motto...
TENUI NEC DIMITTAM.."I've taken hold and won't let go"...Barbara Tritelli just told us via Sweeney Family about Harry "Butch"...our condolences to all "Chief's" Family/Friends. Can remember when Pancho Lynch was center and Harry was quarterback...then seeing him riding as cop WPD motorcycle/horses.
Barbara's husband Bernie/was on same team--is suffering from Alzheimer's and 57' class would meet @ Country Buffett once/month just Sallies guys...it was fun and Bernie enjoyed. He's now @ Old Masonic Home on Lancaster Pike off 141/48...Salesianum in the chapel @ new Sallies was a saying above altar...TEMPUS FUGIT--"Time Flies".
Love/Blessings from Samson/Tritelli Families.
Mike and Mary Lou Maloney
February 14, 2016
Millie and family ... We are saddened to learn of Harry's passing.. We will always have fond memories of our "Dinosaur Lunches ...Harry is now at peace ...God Bless you all...
Shirley Slaughter
February 14, 2016
God Bless you Millie and family. Harry will always be a part of our lives. We were blessed to have him protect us and he will continue to do so. His memories will always be treasured. Love You Millie we are here for you.
Kris Winnick
February 14, 2016
Millie and Family,
My deepest sympathy to you and your family
Kris
February 14, 2016
Millie and Family,
We extend to you, Lin, Sue and your grandchildren our deepest sympathy. We have so many fond memories of our years of friendship. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. To you and Harry, "thanks for the memories". May God bless you and give you strength to carry on. Sincerely,
Joanne and Bob Hines
Tim Hamill
February 13, 2016
Millie, sincere condolences to you and your family. Harry will always be remembered as a great guy.
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