Today started as a great day with perfect weather for a Cruise lead by our Cruise Master John “Doc” Manges.
Everyone’s spirits were high especially Doc’s. Unfortunately, while Doc was doing what he enjoyed most, he suffered a massive heart attack. Doc had pulled off to the side of the road with a long line of Corvettes behind him. It took a while for the message of a medical emergency to reach us. Immediately the majority of us went to his car to lend whatever help we could. It was heartening to see the number of people that stopped to lend assistance. There were army medical assistants; there were people on phones calling for help and club members helping to control traffic that had backed up in both directions. The first responder was an EMT fireman who had the equipment necessary to treat a heart attack victim; next came the Ambulance and their EMT’s. Doc was prepared for transport as quickly as possible to Clearview Hospital in Monroe GA. All of us went to the Hospital in the hopes that Doc could recover from the heart attack. It was with great sadness we learned he did not survive.
I considered Doc a good friend and a highly regarded leader within the leadership group for Amazing Corvettes Club. Doc’s skills for organizing a cruise were unique and skilled. His preparation and consideration for the people joining him on the cruise was unequalled to any other cruise I have ever been on, his contribution to ACC will be greatly missed. I will miss the easy way Doc approached cruises and his friendly smile he had for all. Doc always went beyond what most of us would expect, giving his best efforts to make sure everyone enjoyed themselves on his cruise. Doc leaves a hole in our hearts and our leadership team. Doc’s guidance and the execution of his cruises has shown us all what is possible to achieve and in that spirit we will strive to continue the cruises in honor of John Doc Manges our beloved Cruise Master.
On a special note, Jackie Manges and family are in need of our understanding and support through this difficult time. I know there will be more news to come about Doc’s service arrangements. I will advise everyone by email of any information I receive.
Please keep Jackie and her family in your thoughts and prayers.
Best Wishes
Steve Bracken
