Milan Mandaric, a pioneering figure in the printed circuit board (PCB) manufacturing industry and founder of Sanmina Corporation (NASDAQ: SANM), passed away on October 4, 2025, in Serbia after a short illness. He was 87.

Born in 1938 near Gospic, Croatia, and raised in Novi Sad, Serbia, Mandaric developed a passion for mechanical innovation while working in his father's workshop. After marrying Gordana Ciric in 1966 and spending a brief period in Switzerland, he emigrated with his family to the United States in 1969—a move that marked the beginning of a transformative career in both technology and sports.

In Silicon Valley, Mandaric founded Lika Corporation and later Sanmina Corporation, helping revolutionize how printed circuit boards were assembled and delivered to OEM customers. He was among the earliest to introduce turnkey PCB assembly, enabling clients to receive complete motherboards ready for integration. This approach laid the foundation for the modern electronics manufacturing supply chain.

Mandaric's companies played a key role in the rise of Silicon Valley's manufacturing ecosystem, and he secured one of Apple's first production contracts in its early days. Known for his relentless drive and visionary leadership, he became a respected name across the global electronics manufacturing community.

Beyond technology, Mandaric was also a passionate sports entrepreneur. He founded the San Jose Earthquakes in 1974—the city's first professional sports franchise—and went on to own and manage several football clubs in Europe, including Portsmouth F.C., Leicester City, and OGC Nice, earning a reputation as "The Fixer" for reviving struggling teams.

Mandaric is remembered for his energy, optimism, and sharp business acumen. He is survived by his wife Gordana, daughters Aleksandra and Yasmina, grandson Milan, granddaughters Daniela and Leila, sister Smilja Loncar, and many friends and colleagues across the U.S., U.K., and Europe.