Mr. Manatt was a celebrated leader in business and politics and his counsel was deeply valued by his peers and associates. Meridian Board Chairman, Governor James J. Blanchard, remembered Mr. Manatt for his invaluable advice and knowledge over the course of a 30 year friendship, and also credited Mr. Manatt with first leading him to Meridian.

Founder and co-chairman of Manatt, Phelps & Phillips, LLP, Mr. Manatt was instrumental in growing the firm from six lawyers in 1965 to today’s 350 offices in New York, California, and Washington. He also served as chairman of the Democratic National Committee from 1981 to 1985, and is recognized for returning the party to financial stability after the 1980 elections. In addition to remaining a trusted voice in the public and private sector, highlights of Mr. Manatt’s distinguished career include serving as US Ambassador to the Dominican Republic from 1999 to 2001 and as co-chairman of Bill Clinton's presidential campaign in 1992.

Born June 9, 1936, in Chicago, Mr. Manatt grew up on a farm outside Audubon, Iowa. He was an Eagle Scout and a member of the Future Farmers of America, and later went on to earn a degree from George Washington University Law School.

Mr. Manatt is survived by his wife, Kathy, daughter Michele, sons Timothy and Daniel, a brother, and three grandchildren. A visitation is scheduled for TODAY in Washington, DC between 1-4 pm at United Methodist Metropolitan Memorial Church, 3401 Nebraska Ave., NW. A memorial service is planned in Washington, DC, for September, and a Celebration of Life is anticipated in Los Angeles at a later date. He will be deeply missed.