We’re mourning and cherishing memories of Martin Manuel Jr., a longtime member of our Soccer America family.
Martin was the 51-year life partner and husband of Lynn Manuel-Berling, who served Soccer America in a series of leadership roles — from editor-in-chief to publisher to CEO — from the 1970s through the late 2000s.
“He was the wind beneath my wings,” said Lynn, who was also AYSO’s Chief Marketing Officer in 2007-15 and United Soccer Coaches’ CEO in 2015-22.
Born in 1951 in Berkeley, California, Martin passed away last month at the age of 74 after a 10-year journey as a stroke survivor.
Martin devoted his life to serving others through a wide range of social service work. He directed a multi-city homeless food program, counseled abused children and served in human support roles of many kinds. He spent nearly a decade serving the Dorothy Day House homeless breakfast program in Berkeley, Calif.
Martin also spent several years as Soccer America’s Facility Supervisor.
In addition to Lynn, Martin is survived by his brother Gary Edmond Manuel and a cherished extended family of in-laws, cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests considering making a donation in Martin’s memory to your local PBS stations or NPR stations.