Bill McManus, president of McManus Enterprises and PeakBeam Systems, passed away Wednesday, January 12.
Born on December 16, 1946 in Pontiac, MI, McManus was a pioneer of the lighting industry, both as a lighting designer and as a contributor to the development new technology.
In the 1970s, he was lighting designer for such notable bands as The Doors, Elton John, Cat Stevens, The Eagles, and The Who, to name a few. While designing for Jethro Tull, he spearheaded the development of a new PAR can fixture for concert touring that could be shipped pre-hung, pre-wired, and pre-gelled in truss and used show after show with little maintenance. He was also involved in developing pre-hung truss, chain climbing chain hoist, and the first to use a front-of-house truss and touring, motorized rear projection screens.
McManus is survived by wife Jean, as well as his two children Anne and Billy.
Donations may be made in McManus' name to: American Red Cross, Southeast Pennsylvania Chapter, 23rd and Chestnut Streets, Philadelphia, PA 19103.
A memorial service to honor McManus is being planned for late spring or early summer. For updated information on details of the service, email PeakBeam Systems: mary@peakbeam.com.
Lighting Dimensions will be running a tribute to McManus in the March issue. Please send your thoughts, memories, and stories via email to: msandberg-dierson@primediabusiness.com.