In Memoriam: Lee Mancuso

Lee Mancuso, Senior Property Auditor, passed away from ALS (Lou Gehrig’s Disease) on Saturday, June 7, 2025. Lee joined the Finance Division in 2011 and was a valued member of the Property Accounting team, known for his positive attitude and collaborative work with colleagues and campus partners on equipment tagging, inventory, dispositions, audits, and capital requisitions.

Beth McShane, Property Accounting Manager, noted, “Lee had a towering presence at 6’4” tall, an engaging personality, and a quick sense of humor that drew people in.” Sara Stone, Executive Assistant to the Controller, remembered Lee as generous, always willing to help, and keen to participate. On Zoom calls, she recalls “he would be the one chatting with everyone before the call started.” Peggy Joyce, Property Accounting Services Representative, recalls Lee’s “commanding presence,” but that he was also “very funny and generous to a fault.” Lee demonstrated these characteristics through his love of animals (he affectionately referred to them as his “Fur Babies”) and by often sharing coffee, pastries, or his beloved leftovers from Lucca (he swore by their meatballs) with coworkers. If you had a favorite candy bar, he was known to leave it on your desk as a surprise gift.

Lee’s patience and willingness to help – especially his gift for patiently guiding the Property Accounting team through technical upgrades – left an impression on many. During his time at CMU, Lee implemented a scanning process for equipment dispositions that significantly reduced paper usage and improved access to documentation. He built strong relationships with campus buyers and departmental property officers who trusted his knowledge, commitment, and follow through. “His work and demeanor definitely contributed to Property Accounting’s good reputation across campus,” said Tanner Boyle, Property Accounting Auditor.

Ray Nardozzi, Senior Buyer and Facilities Manager of the Pittsburgh Supercomputing Center, said “I never had a bad interaction with Lee. He was special in a way that he was quick to smile and easy to laugh.” Kirk Brinkley, custodial staff in the UTDC building (where the Finance Division was previously headquartered), had a similar recollection. “The laughter is what I’ll miss the most. When we got together, all we would do is laugh.”

Lee made work smoother, days lighter, and teams stronger. His impact was profound and he will be deeply missed. The Finance Division extends its condolences to Lee’s family, friends, and colleagues. 

Colleagues may view Lee’s obituary here and contribute memories and notes to the family.