Glenn Doyle Manning, aged 81, of Clay Center, passed away on Thursday, May 4th, 2023, at Clay County Medical Center. Born in DeQueen, Arkansas on October 18th, 1941, Glenn was the son of Haskell and Ona (Frint) Manning.
From a young age, Glenn understood the importance of responsibility and empathy. His mother, who was tragically claimed by cancer, when he was only 8 years old, significantly shaped his character, instilling lifelong values. His father then married Erma Lee Thompson on August 12th, 1950, in Belleville, Kansas and they moved to Washington, Kansas in December of 1950.
At a tender age of 14, Glenn began his working journey at a local grocery store. He was a student at Washington High School and graduated in 1959. Interestingly, while his classmates walked the stage, Glenn was serving on a carrier for the United States Navy, leaving his father, Haskell, to accept his diploma on his behalf.
Returning to Kansas, Glenn immediately resumed work as a butcher. On June 18th, 1972, he married Gloria Bulin in Arkansas City, Kansas. Together they welcomed their son, Christopher Allen. Glenn continued working as a butcher at Boogaarts and in 1997, accepted a role that relocated him to Clay Center. When Boogaarts ceased operations, Glenn transitioned to Dieck’s Locker Plant where he worked until his retirement.
Glenn was an individual who believed in the strength of his word, the power of his convictions, and the essence of loyalty. He kept his promises and was regarded as a trustworthy person. This unwavering loyalty extended to his friends, family, and notably to his son’s dog, for whom he was even prepared to face incarceration.
A lover of life and nature, Glenn was a passionate fisherman, enjoying the tranquility that the outdoors offered. Those who had the privilege of fishing with him cherish those moments. A competitive pitch and domino player, Glenn thrived on the camaraderie these games provided, always able to evoke laughter that filled the room. As an accomplished billiards player, he frequently honed his skills at the Idle Hour.
Recognized for his distinctive, resonant voice, Glenn never hesitated to express his thoughts, providing an honest and genuine perspective. As a father, Glenn’s dedication to his son was unwavering, offering guidance, support, and boundless love. He and Chris were more like best friends than father and son, even opting to share a home and expenses together for the majority of Chris’s adult life.
Glenn’s capacity for friendship was immense, maintaining numerous friendships throughout his life. He was known to call each contact in his phone on holidays and birthdays, wishing them well and letting them know they were on his mind. This kindhearted gesture is a testament to Glenn’s selfless nature, always prioritizing others over himself.
Glenn was preceded in death by his parents, stepmother Erma Lee Manning-Morehead, sister Peggy, and brother Dennis. He is survived by his son, Christopher, of Clay Center; his brother, Mike and wife Gay Lynn Manning of Washington, Kansas; sisters Edna and husband Tim Highberger of Hooker, Oklahoma; Nancy and husband Larry Basel of Solomon, Kansas; and an extensive circle of friends.
Details of a celebration of life for Glenn will be announced at a later time.
