Manzak McGee

Manzak McGee, 63, of Waterloo died at home on Sunday, October 24, 2021. Manzak was born on November 27, 1957, in Durant, MS, the son of John H. McGee, Sr. and Alice M. (Anderson) McGee. Manzak graduated from Central High School in 1976.

After high school. Manzak attended NIACC on a football scholarship. Football was certainly one of Manzaks's favorite past times. Manzak was a beast on the gridiron and a "beast" is no exaggeration. Manzak had been known regionally to hit with the strength and impact of a man twice his size. He garnered much respect from both friends and foe alike.

Manzak had an incredible ear for music. His photographic memory allowed him to remember whole catalogs of music, from jazz to rock and roll and rhythm and blues. His most adored R&B artist was SADE – in fact, he loved her so much that he named his second child after the artist.

Some would say that he was also quite eclectic, perhaps a little eccentric. He loved exploring nature, exhibiting an interest in what others passed over, like lizards, snakes, turtles, frogs, butterflies, and fish. In fact, he loved fishing, but he also exemplified a fascination for both ping pong and spades, as well as various philosophical and religious musings that kept him entertained. He was very strong in his faith in God.

Manzak worked at both John Deere and Iowa Department of Transportation. He worked for IDOT until he became disabled. He was married to Lori Griner and from that union, he had two daughters. They later divorced. Then Manzak married Jacque Spencer, and they also later divorced.

Manzak is survived by 2 daughters, Karmelle McGee and Juaacklynn (Anntwan) Phillips, both of Waterloo; 7 grandchildren, Samara, Kamari, Kalaiah, Niketa, Zariah, Kyree, and Ky'Onna, all of Waterloo; 2 brothers, Frank McGee of MI and DeCarlos (Denise) Dixon, of Des Moines; 2 sisters, Veronica (Abraham) McGee Funchess and Kemberly McGee, both of Waterloo; special aunt Gertrude Wright of TN; 2 uncles; 2 aunts; special cousins, Terry Anderson and Darryl Anderson of Waterloo, Audra Wright and Lovia Wright of TN; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents; 2 brothers, John H. McGee, Jr. and Jerry D. McGee; 2 sisters, Gerilene McGee and Earsine Whitaker; both maternal and paternal grandparents; 6 uncles; and 4 aunts.