Tribute was paid yesterday to US businessman John Manna, an eclectic supplier of heavy equipment to Bermudian businesses and a long-standing promoter of the Island for several decades.

Healthcare activist Mark Selley called the retired Lieutenant Colonel of the US Air Force “an ambassador for the Island”, whose customers included hundreds of residents and small businesses.

Mr Manna, of Somerset, New Jersey, acquired the export business Manuel Gomez in 1982, and also specialised in repairs to electrical components and heavy machinery. He also supplied many of the Island’s golf courses with golf carts.

He died suddenly at the age of 67 on August 30, Mr Selley said.

“In his own way, John was more Bermudian than some of the residents. He dearly loved Bermuda. He was able to find parts for the most obscure pieces of equipment — and sent them here in 24 hours, by air or ocean freight. Many US businesses don’t ship overseas,” said Mr Selley.

Supplying major construction, excavation, car and other businesses, Mr Manna made a point of visiting Bermuda “at least twice a year”, Mr Selley said, and became a familiar sight to many around the Island as he made the rounds on his rental cycle.

“John possessed two separate valuable and distinct qualities.

“In business, he was the epitome of professionalism, going to whatever lengths necessary to complete any task. John, the man, was the most sincere and caring sensitive individual you could ever want to know. He was like a godfather to his customer’s children — always asking about their progress,” said Mr Selley.

Mr Manna’s sudden passing, he said, “will leave a lifelong void in my life and all those who had the good fortune to have known him and his family”.