Michael Weatherly is grieving the loss of his father, Michael Manning Weatherly, Sr., who passed away last week.
On Tuesday, the NCIS star took to social media to share a heartfelt tribute to his father, a former Second Lieutenant in the U.S. Army and a key figure in popularizing the Swiss Army Knife in the 1970s and ’80s. Weatherly posted a nostalgic photo of himself with his dad, writing: “My father, Michael Manning Weatherly, passed away last Thursday. He leaves behind many loved ones who will miss him dearly.”
In his tribute, Weatherly described his father as “a great friend to me in my adult years” and a man with “adventure and great humor.” He recounted his father’s impressive career, including his role in making the Swiss Army Knife a household name. The post included a detailed obituary, highlighting Michael Manning’s life, including his education at St. Louis Country Day, Princeton University, and Harvard Business School. It also mentioned his work with Dancer Fitzgerald Sample, his ventures in the Maldives and Honduras, and his successful importation of Swiss Army Knives.
Michael Manning Weatherly, born in 1932, was also noted for his love of Jamaica, where he spent many years at his home in Tryall. He is remembered for his storytelling and relaxed lifestyle, often enjoying a cigar under the Sea Almond trees. He is survived by his wife Ellis, children Elizabeth, Leigh, Michael, and the late William, stepchildren Chris, Lisa, and Cornelia, as well as 12 grandchildren.
The tribute concluded with a moving note: “He was asked in recent years if there was anything he’d like to do. With a characteristic twinkle in his eye, he replied, ‘I’ve done it all.’ May he rest in peace.”
The post quickly received an outpouring of condolences from fans, with many sharing their sympathy and noting the adventurous life of Weatherly’s father.
Michael Weatherly, known for keeping his family life private, occasionally shares glimpses into his personal life. He is married to Bojana Jankovic, with whom he has two children, Olivia and Liam. He also has a 28-year-old son, August, from his previous marriage to Amelia Heinle. In February, he shared a cherished family photo with Bojana and Olivia, celebrating a winter evening with love.
