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In Memoriam: Manuel "Mani" Iturbe

Manuel Iturbe

NPower has lost a dear friend and colleague. Manuel "Mani" Iturbe died December 15, 2007 after being struck by a car while jogging near his home in Renton. For the last five years, Mani had been the lead instructor at King County's Digital Bridge Technology Academy providing technology training for low-income, at-risk youth. He had recently been assisting with instruction for the youth in our Service Corps internship program and was to join us full-time on December 17.

Mani was an inspiration to both the young people he guided toward success and to his friends and colleagues around the Puget Sound. Like many people who choose careers in the social sector, Mani wanted to make a difference in our community. He didn't see his work as a simple opportunity for personal advancement. And yet, there are few of us who embody that serious intent with the level of good humor and endearing, authentic cheerfulness that Mani exuded. He was the most earnest jokester we'll ever meet.

A friend has set up a benevolent fund for the benefit of Manuel's wonderful wife and infant son. We all feel as though we know Celine and Mathis as well as we did Mani thanks to his constant devotion and daily stories of their exploits together. You can make a donation to their secure benevolent account in person at any Washington Mutual branch and referencing the Manuel Iturbe Memorial Fund (account# 9343730902).  If your bank provides ACH/Billpay transfers, you may make a direct deposit to the account (bank routing# 325070760). You may also mail a check or money order to:

Manuel Iturbe Memorial Fund
c/o: Washington Mutual
13033 SE 69th Way
Newcastle, WA 98056