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The Manko’s Story
An Inspiration to All Who Knew Them
Frank and Marjorie Manko lived a long, full yet humble life of devotion; devotion to life, to their Catholic faith, to each other, and to humanity. That devotion to humanity led them to become donors to St. Anthony’s, and eventually to naming St. Anthony’s as a beneficiary in their trust, which included a transformational gift to our Companionship Model.
Frank was born in Pontiac Michigan, educated at Catholic Schools and was the child of Polish immigrants. He lived through the Great Depression, and it had a lasting effect on his life, especially when it came to being grateful for all the blessings, large and small, in his life. He enlisted in the Army Air Corps (now the Air Force) in 1943 and served two years, achieving the rank of 2nd Lieutenant. He moved to San Francisco after World War II when he received a football scholarship to play at University of San Francisco and even played professionally as quarterback for the San Francisco Clippers at Kezar Stadium, a predecessor to the 49ers before the NFL came to the West Coast. Frank was called to active duty during the Korean War. Following his service in Korea, he eventually joined Hoffmann Sports, Inc. as their Northern California sales representative, where he worked for 25 years.
An only child, Marge was born in Hilo, Hawaii, where her family owned a sugar cane plantation. She was petite and fondly known as a “spark plug,” because she could be tough but also compassionate and possessed a huge and kind heart. This disposition served her well during her 57-year career in San Francisco Unified School District, including terms as the principal of Frank McCoppin and Guadalupe elementary schools. Mayor Willie Brown declared it Marjorie Manko Day when she retired.
Frank met Marge in November 1946 when he was at USF and she was a student at the nearby San Francisco College for Women. Just four months later – Valentine’s Day – he proposed and they were married in June 7, 1947.
Even though they never had any children of their own, they “adopted” thousands of children through Marjorie’s career in education and through their friends. Paul Hoffmann, a son of the founder of Hoffmann Sports for which Frank worked, served as executor of the Manko’s trust. He fondly described how he and his siblings were only able to go to Disneyland because of the Mankos.
“They were coming to town and just said, ‘Get in the car, we’re going to Disneyland!’” recalled Paul. “They were naturally inclined to give to others and always enjoyed the many people in their lives.”
After years of making regular but small gifts to support St. Anthony’s work, we learned that the Manko’s named us a beneficiary in trust. The couple dedicated their lives to serving others and decided to leave everything they had to charity.
“They had great love for San Francisco and would be pleased that their legacy gift is making a positive difference in the lives of St. Anthony’s guests,” said Paul.
The Manko’s 68 years together was an inspiration to all who knew them. For their lifelong commitment to service and to helping San Franciscans in need, St. Anthony’s is honored to include Frank and Marjorie Manko as members of The Speranza Society.
During our 75th Anniversary year, all new bequest inclusion notifications will generate a $750 matching gift from generous members of our Speranza Society.
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended as financial, legal, or tax advice. St. Anthony’s recommends you consult with qualified, independent professionals before making decisions about your estate plans
