David Gilbert Mannen

David “Dave” Mannen, beloved husband, father, grandfather, coach, and friend passed away peacefully on June 4, 2025, at the age of 87. Known for his quick wit, sharp intellect and competitive spirit, Dave had a lifelong devotion to both family and sport,

Born in 1937 in Mount Vernon, Illinois, Dave was the middle of three brothers. Preceded in death are his parents Anna Kathryn Davis Mannen and Marvin McNail Mannen. He entered Kent State University at 16 years old on a basketball scholarship, majoring in Economics. During his college years, Dave was called to serve in the military amid the Berlin Crisis and served for two years, shaping his sense of responsibility and discipline.

After returning from the Army, Dave worked at Cape Canaveral, Florida, with RCA, contributing to missile system development during a critical period in American aerospace history. Upon returning to Houston, he worked at Cameron Iron Works. Then Dave joined Mitchell Energy and Development Corporation, where he helped to develop The Woodlands.

In the early 1970s, Dave’s passion for golf led him to compete in the National Tournament Golf Association. He pursued a career as a professional golfer for two years — a highlight of his life.

While at Kent State, Dave met the love of his life, Beverly. The two married on November 20, 1965, beginning a partnership defined by love and loyalty. After living in Tampa for several years, the family settled in Spring, Texas, in 1973. They had joined Champions Golf Club in 1968, and golf remained a central part of their lives.

Dave began his coaching career at Houston Baptist University (now Houston Christian University} in 1976, first as an assistant basketball coach and later as the men’s and women’s golf coach — a role he held for 16 years. Under his leadership, HBU earned five TAAC tournament championships, produced seven All-Americans, and had four athletes named TAAC Player of the Year. He was named TAAC Coach of the Year eight years in a row and was later inducted into the HBU TAAC Hall of Fame. Many of his players found success in professional golf, including Colin Montgomerie, who was inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame. In 1985, Dave earned a master’s degree in physical education. A highlight of his coaching career was leading the HBU team to the 1987 NCAA Men's Golf Championship. The HBU team finished in the top five among Oklahoma State, Wake Forest, Oklahoma, and Ohio State.

After retiring from HBU, Dave remained connected to the sport he loved, working as a golf course superintendent and design consultant. He was known not just for his coaching achievements, but for the lasting impact he made on the student athletes.

Dave is survived by his wife Beverly Mannen, his children Maquelle (son-in-law Rene' Bienvenu), Michael (daughter-in-law Cheri) Mannen and Matt (daughter-in-law Tamara) Mannen; and his granddaughters Gabrielle and Elise Bienvenu, Keslar and Karlyn Mannen. He is preceded in death by his grandson Luke Bienvenu. Dave is survived by his younger brother Charlie Mannen and is preceded in death by his older brother Mak Mannen.

Dave Mannen lived with sharp wit and a dry sense of humor. His influence carries on in each child he raised and every player he coached.

In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that donations be sent to the Conroe Senior Center.