Manuel Vellon ’81

The world lost a great soul May 27, 2020, when a tragic hiking accident took our beloved friend, Manny Vellon. Manny was a beacon in the lives of everyone in his orbit. His unalterable logic, unquenchable curiosity, razor-sharp insights, unsinkable humor, and steadfast friendship touched and shaped everyone who knew him. 

An electrical engineering and computer science major, Manny became a software developer at HP, then joined Microsoft, where he became group program manager. Living in Bellevue, Wash., he co-foundedthe Virtual Worlds Group at Microsoft to study social interaction, collaboration, and real-time communication on the internet.  

After Microsoft, Manny started a consulting business to help startups and venture-capital companies. After his first “retirement,” Manny co-founded Likewise Software. After his second, he became partner and CTO at Level 11, which pioneers consumer technologies at theme parks, hotels, and cruise ships. 

Manny leaves a legacy of decency, honor, and humanity that will be carried on by his loving wife, Sally — Manny’s high school sweetheart and soul mate of 45 years — and their two extraordinary children, Danielle ’13 and Steven. 

Manny’s loss impoverishes us all, but his presence has made the world richer for everyone who crossed his path.