Manzan Kouassi

On March 3, 2026, Manzan Kouassi passed away peacefully at the age of 72 in Hartford, CT. Manzan was a loving husband, devoted father, and caring friend to many people. He leaves behind a legacy of love with his wife, Monique, and children, Raymond and Melissa.

Manzan Apollinaire Kouassi was born on June 18, 1953, in Cote d'Ivoire to Kouadio Appoh and Akoua Koligo. After graduating high school at the top of his class, Manzan went on to earn a bachelor's degree in Agronomic Engineering from the University of Abidjan – Ecole Nationale Supérieure Agronomique (ENSA). Manzan came to the United States to pursue a master's degree in Agricultural Economics at the University of Connecticut. Manzan met his wife Monique (Lesperance) at UConn and wed in 1983.

Manzan cherished every moment with his wife and children, and he made sure those moments were plentiful and memorable – whether vacationing or spending time with friends and family in Cote d'Ivoire. As a father, Manzan could be found on the sidelines of soccer and basketball games as well as dance recitals and cheerleading competitions. He also proudly supported his children's creative endeavors. He did not miss moments and behind his camera, he made sure none of those moments were ever lost, building a legacy of a family life rich with love, laughter, and togetherness.

Manzan dedicated his life to his family and the people he loved. He moved through the world with intention, grace, and what he himself described as "a fire in the belly." That inner drive was evident in everything he did, and it inspired all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Manzan worked for over 30 years in the insurance industry. During his career Manzan always strived to continue educating himself and gaining new skills. He obtained his CLU CHFC designation from The American College of Financial Services. After a long and successful career, Manzan retired in 2020. After retirement, he found great joy in working on household projects and connecting with family and friends.

Manzan was predeceased by his infant son, Samuel; father, Kouadio Appoh; mother, Akoua Koligo; and brother, Kouadio Kouman. Manzan is survived by his wife of 42 years, Monique Kouassi (Vernon, CT); children, Raymond (Stephanie, of Los Angeles, CA) and Melissa (Vernon, CT); and siblings Kouadio Kra, Appoh Aman Yerebro, Koffi Adjoumani many family members, nieces, nephews and a host of friends.

His family will receive friends on Saturday, March 21, 10-11 a.m., followed by a funeral service at 11 a.m., at Crossroads Community Cathedral-East Windsor Campus, 53 Prospect Hill Road, East Windsor. Burial will be in Cimetière de Tiedio, Cote d'Ivoire, Africa.

Ladd-Turkington & Carmon Funeral Home, Vernon has care of the arrangements. For online condolences and to view the services live or after, Saturday, March 21st at 11 a.m., please visit, www.carmonfuneralhome.com.