It is with deep sadness that the family of Lucian Manea, affectionately known as “Manucci,” announces his unexpected passing on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, at Waterbury Hospital, surrounded by Anca, Matei, Yuliya and David. He was 69 years old and would have turned 70 in March. Born on March 19, 1956, in Sacele, Romania, to the late Vasile and Stela (Ionescu) Manea, Lucian developed an early passion for building things that last. He earned degrees in railroad and bridge construction, technical engineering, and civil engineering, and spent his early career shaping Romania’s infrastructure through railroads, bridges, and civic projects that still stand today.

In 1987 he married the love of his life, Anca Marina (Noaghe) Manea, beginning a 39-year journey filled with partnership, laughter, and quiet strength. Together they immigrated to the United States in 1990, settling in Woodbury, Connecticut, where they raised their son, Matei, and built a warm, welcoming home for nearly three decades.

Lucian continued to grow professionally, earning multiple master’s degrees forging a respected career as an Environmental and Civil Engineer at AECOM. Yet he was far more than his work. A natural creator and “busy bee,” he designed and sewed his own clothes, tackled inventive various projects, and delighted in making others laugh—especially among his close Romanian friends, where his quick wit and playful humor always shone brightest.

He savored life’s simple joys: a long beard he took quiet pride in, a good glass of whiskey shared with friends, and the warmth of good company. Lucian had a rare gift for bringing lightness and care into any room he entered. Just last December, he and Anca purchased a beautiful new home in Texas, excitedly planning to retire at the end of March and move closer to their son Matei and his partner Yuliya. That next chapter—full of family, relaxation, and new horizons—was so close at hand.

Lucian is survived by his devoted wife Anca of 39 years; his son Matei Nicholas Manea and Yuliya Grigoryan of Texas; his brother Liviu Manea and wife Nadia of Romania; his father-in-law Nicolae Munteanu; and a wide circle of cousins, nieces, nephews, extended family, and cherished friends across continents.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, February 7, 2026, at 3:30 p.m. at Casey's Eastside Memorial Funeral Home and Cremation Care, 1987 East Main St., Waterbury, CT 06705. Friends and relatives are warmly invited to visit with the family from 2:00 p.m. until the start of the service. Burial will take place privately at the family’s convenience. Messages of condolence, shared memories, or loving kindness sent through the funeral home website at www.caseyfunerals.com are welcome.

Lucian’s generous spirit, steady presence, and infectious humor will live on in every heart he touched.