Manfred "Manny" Diflo

A Celebration of Life for Manny and his wife, Ellen, will be held on

Sunday, June 22, 2025, from 12–3 PM at Skaneateles Brewery, 4022 Mill Rd., Skaneateles, NY. All are welcome.

Manfred "Manny" Diflo, 93, a longtime Syracuse resident, passed away peacefully on February 9, 2025, at Francis House. He passed within months of his wife Ellen, after 67 years of marriage.

Born on February 3, 1932, in Koblenz, Germany, Manny and Ellen lived in Switzerland, Australia, and Puerto Rico before settling in Syracuse in 1963.

Manny was Director of Design and Department Head at the architectural firm Sargent Webster Crenshaw & Folley, where he worked until his retirement in 1993. An accomplished runner and member of the Syracuse Chargers, he completed many marathons including Boston and NYC. In retirement, he played daily tennis at Drumlins Tennis Club and devoted himself to watercolor painting.

Painting became a treasured daily ritual for Manny. He found peace and joy in capturing scenes from nature, travel, and everyday life—painting mostly landscapes that reflected his love for the natural world and his thoughtful, artistic spirit. He generously gifted many of his beautiful paintings to friends and family, each one a lasting piece of his presence and creativity.

Manny and Ellen welcomed many into their home and hearts, hosting memorable holiday gatherings. They leave behind beloved relatives in Germany and an extended Syracuse community of dear friends.

Manny leaves behind beloved family in Germany and an extended Syracuse family of cherished friends. He will be missed by all that knew him.

The family wishes to thank the many neighbors, friends, and former coworkers whose kindness and support meant so much in his final years.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Francis House of Syracuse at francishouseny.org in their memory.

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