The following is a statement from Susan G. Rosenthal, President and CEO of Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation about the passing of Jack McManus:
"I was saddened to learn this morning of Jack’s passing during the night. For over two years, he fought cancer resulting from his extraordinary service as head of operations during the 9/11 aftermath.
Over the past 5 years, I got to know the man. He loved Roosevelt Island and was committed to his job as Chief as much as he was committed to every position he ever held. I spoke to him last on Easter Sunday. When I told him about officer Fischer’s passing, his immediate response was to call the PSD officers closest to Fischer to ease their pain. That’s just who he was.
At some point, he knew he wasn’t going to beat this cancer, but he continued with whatever treatment was available no matter how debilitating so he could live. He loved life and especially his family.
Those on Roosevelt Island know how much he cared about our community. He spent endless hours talking to residents about their concerns or complaints. He brought peace, cooperation and respect to the relationship between PSD and our residents.
I’m so pleased that we honored him at the community’s retirement party and we named Octagon Field for him so that he was able to experience being celebrated by us while he was alive."
Chief McManus’s implementation of community policing is credited for not only making Roosevelt Island one of the safest neighborhoods in New York City, but for improving the department’s relationship with the community. Please join the Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation, its Public Safety Officers and Jack’s family in mourning the loss of this exemplary public servant.