Ernest "Ernie" L. Rock, Ph.D.

Dr. Ernest L. Rock, age 88, of Dayton, Ohio, passed away on February 27, 2026. A visionary educator, gifted artist, prolific songwriter and award-winning television performer & producer, "Ernie" spent over forty years as a member of the Dayton arts community.

Born on August 30, 1937, in Latrobe, Pennsylvania, he was the son of the late Anthony Louis Rock and Anna (Resnik) Rock. Ernie was a 1955 graduate of Latrobe High School. His academic journey was distinguished, earning a Bachelor of Arts from St. Vincent College, a Master of Arts from Indiana University, and a Ph.D. from Ohio State University, with a concentration on foreign language education and linguistics.

Ernie was a champion for alternative education in urban environments, a teacher of alternative and gifted students. He served as the Director of the Living Arts Center, a unique, federally funded program designed to foster creativity within the metropolitan Dayton area. It was here that he developed "Mr Manime"—a character that helped to nurture individual creativity through actions and song.

His creative talents reached a broad audience during his tenure with WHIO-TV, where he wrote, produced, and hosted an educational children’s program. He was best known for his work on the weekly series Courthouse Square and several Mr. Manime and You specials. This work earned numerous local, state, and national awards for excellence in children’s programming. Concurrently, Ernie shared his insights through a weekly illustrated column in two local newspapers.

In his later career, Ernie served as a writer and producer of instructional and educational television for Dayton Public Schools. Whether working with gifted students or those facing significant challenges, his approach remained rooted in multi-cultural understanding and the belief that every individual possesses unique creative potential.

He is survived by his children, Michael Rock of Monroe, Ohio, and Megan Rock (Eric Mast) of Atlanta, Georgia. His legacy lives on in those he inspired to see the world through a more imaginative lens.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Ernie’s memory to Ohio’s Hospice, the Dayton Region. Pursuant to his wishes, no formal services will be held.

To share a memory of Ernie or leave a special message for his family, please visit the guestbook below.