Age 88, passed away on January 5, 2026, in Glen Mills, PA.

Born on May 3, 1937, in Boston, MA, Fred led a life marked by intelligence and friendship with a quiet, yet adventurous spirit. He dedicated his career to science as a chemist as well as in marketing and production management roles for the DuPont Company. After retirement, he was an active volunteer for Congregation Beth Emeth, the Kutz Senior Living community in Wilmington, DE and Maris Grove in Glen Mills, PA. In addition, he was the bookkeeper for his daughter’s internationally known music sample clearance company.

A graduate of Boston Latin School and Harvard University, Fred earned a PhD in Chemistry from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. He then travelled to Wales for post-doctoral studies at the University of North Wales before returning to work in Delaware.

Fred was not only academically inclined but was also deeply involved in communities wherever he resided including Wales, Delaware, New Jersey, West Virginia, and Pennsylvania. He was an expert competitive marksman and volunteered for many years as a shooting range officer and gun educator. Fred was an avid reader and enjoyed attending concerts, theater, and opera performances in the US and England.

Preceded in death by his wife, Elinor Mannis and his parents, Ralph and Mary Mannis; Fred is survived by his daughters, Deborah Mannis-Gardner (Drew Rader) and Wendy Mannis Scher (Alan Scher); grandchildren, Jonah Scher, Molly Scher, Curtis Gardner, and Noah Rader.

Graveside services will be 11:00 am, Friday, January 23, 2026 at Beth Emeth Memorial Park, 1220 Faulkland Road, Wilmington, DE 19805. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to The Grand Opera House in Wilmington, DE in memory of Fred, honoring his enthusiasm for live performances (www.thegrandwilmington.org).

If you are unable to attend the service in person and would like the zoom information, please contact Schoenberg Memorial Chapel at 302-762-0334.