Joseph Manning

Joseph George Manning, 88, passed away August 31, 2019.   Joe was born April 3, 1931 to Joseph V. and Helen (Habeck) Manning, at home in Silverleaf Township, Becker County, Minnesota.

He grew up near Frazee, MN and graduated from the 8th grade from School District 65.   He completed his High School GED in 1982, graduating from high school at the same time as his daughter Suzanne.

Joe joined the Air Force in Dec. of 1952.   Following basic training at Parks Air Force base in California, he was assigned to Sheppard Air Force Base, Texas.   There he was trained to be a Crew Chief at the Aircraft Mechanic school.   His service during the Korean War was on a C119 airplane.   He was sent to Japan, Korea and the Philippine Islands.   He was discharged in 1956 with the rank of Airman First Class.

He was very proud of the fact that 2 of his Grandsons (Joey & Michael) followed his lead and also joined the Air Force.

Joe married Shirley Brekke Sept. 26th, 1959, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Frazee, MN.   They recently enjoyed a party honoring their 60th Anniversary.

After the military, he worked for Jarden Bridge Company in North Dakota.   He began working for the City of Fargo in 1960.   He was a superintendent for the Public Works Dept., when he retired in 1996 after 36 years with the City.   He also worked part time for Gompf Displays in Fargo.   During his 60 years at Gompfs’, he could frequently be found on a ladder hanging Christmas decorations or flags.

Joe shared his love of the outdoors and hunting with his children and grandchildren.  He truly enjoyed wildlife and was an avid bird watcher.   He enjoyed gardening at their Lake Six summer home.   He was especially fond of growing dahlia flowers.    He looked forward to the yearly family reunion.   He greatly enjoyed visiting with family and friends.    Gathering photos and genealogy information were two of his hobbies.   He also collected silhouette pictures from the 1940’s, wind up toys, and nut crackers.

As an Air Force veteran, he was active in the Am Vets, DAV, and VFW.    He also was a member of 3 horticulture clubs.    One of his greatest joys was spending time with his 6 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.

He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Shirley; his 3 children – Sheryl Little of Twin Valley, MN, Suzanne (Darrell) Kersting of Kindred, ND, Joseph J. Manning of Golden Valley, ND.    One sister-in-law, Doris Manning.    Six grandchildren – Sharla Little, Michael Little, Jeffery Little, Mathew (Erin) Little, Joseph W. Manning, & Jessica Manning.     As well as 11 great grandchildren, and numerous nieces & nephews and extended family.

He was preceded in death by his parents, one infant son, 2 brothers Leo and Cal, and 1 sister-in-law Millie Manning.   Also, one niece Rita Hofer, and four nephews- Tim Hofer, Mike Hofer Jr., Marty Hofer, and Eric Oie.

Visitation will be from 5-7pm with a prayer service at 7 pm on Tuesday, September 10th at Furey Funeral Home – Frazee, MN.

Funeral mass will be at 11am Wednesday, September 11th at Sacred Heart Catholic Church – Frazee, MN, with visitation one-hour prior.