Dr. Michael R. Manning

Dr. Michael R. Manning 71, a prominent Tucson physician passed away on Friday, December 18, 2015. Dr. Manning was a fourth generation Tucsonan and graduate of Rincon High School and the University of Arizona. Upon completion of his Bachelors of Science in 1968 Dr. Manning pursued graduate studies at the UofA, later spending time as a medical technician with the 152nd Fighter Intercept Squadron with the Arizona Air National Guard. Dr. Manning entered the University Of Arizona College Of Medicine in the fall of 1969 completing his degree in June of 1973. Dr. Manning spent time at the Cleveland Clinic and later completed a fellowship at the University of California, San Francisco. Upon completion of residency Dr. Manning joined the faculty at the University Medical Center in radiation oncology and helped establish the Arizona Cancer Center. During his tenure Dr. Manning participated in numerous clinical research programs, most notably the use of hyperthermia as a cancer treatment. This later became the subject of two books written and edited by Dr. Manning as well as over 50 peer-reviewed articles in medical publications. Upon leaving the University of Arizona Dr. Manning helped develop the largest radiation oncology private practice in southern Arizona. His specialties included head and neck malignancies, soft tissue sarcomas, brachytherapy and stereotactic radiation. Born in 1944 to parents, Marjorie Sullinger Manning and Dr. Wilkins R. Manning, Dr. Manning enjoyed deep roots within the community. His lineage dates back to former Tucson mayor Levi Howell Manning, surveyor general for the Arizona Territory, cotton farmer at the Canoa Ranch, developer of the Santa Rita Hotel, the Owl's Club, Seinfeld Mansion and the Manning House. His father, Dr. W.R. Manning was the co-founding physician of the University Of Arizona School Of Medicine, former president of the Arizona Medical Association and Pima Medical Society who served on the State Board of Medical Examiners and was chief of staff at both Pima County and St. Mary's Hospitals. Colleagues will remember him as a leader, confidant and friend. Patients have described him as "truly caring, warm, compassionate and insightful" using accolades such as encouraging, empathetic, supportive, professional, sensitive, hopeful, advocate and father-figure. Dr. Manning is survived by his wife, Elaine Manning; daughter, Catie Novogradac (Brian); grandson, Mason Manning Novogradac and sister, Muggsy Manning Hildreth. He will forever be remembered by nieces, Heidi Montijo and Egan Whitley (Kevin); nephew, Michael Hildreth (Anita); sister-in-law, Clarice Mathis and many other extended family members, colleagues and friends. A toast to Dr. Manning will be held on Wednesday, December 30, 2015 from 4:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. at the Tucson Country Club, 2950 N. Camino Principal. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Arizona Oncology Foundation, 2625 N. Craycroft, Suite 100, Tucson, AZ 85712 (www.arizonaoncologyfoundation.org). To express condolences visit the guestbook at www.evergreen-tucson.com Arrangements by EVERGREEN MORTUARY.