Michael A. "Mike" Manley, formerly of Coffeyville, Kansas passed away on Thursday, July 13, 2023, at his home in Edmond, Oklahoma.
Mike was born on October 24, 1951, in Coffeyville, Kansas, to Orville "Monk" and Vernola Manley. He was one of eight children: brothers, John, Junior, and Ben, sisters, Connie, Judy, Marilyn and Mona. They grew up together not just siblings but also friends in Coffeyville where he attended local schools.
Mike lived a life filled with laughter and love. In his 71 years he made an unforgettable impact on everyone he met. A man who could shoot pool with one eye closed, catch fish with his bare hands, and plant flowers while whistling.
Mike was the kind of guy who could turn an ordinary day into a grand adventure. After retiring from Coffeyville Refinery, he devoted his time to his eclectic range of hobbies. Whether he was strategizing his next move in a game of cribbage, or using his green thumb in the garden, Mike always did it with a smile and a joke. He loved his time with Lynda by his side, whether it involved a trip to spin the wheel at the casino or a journey to his beloved Alaska. He could talk for hours with anyone about Harley Davidson Motorcycles.
Mike's love for life was surpassed only by his love for his family. He met the love of his life, his "Alaskan Cutie" Lynda, while serving his country with courage and honor in the United States Army. Their love story is the stuff of legends, beginning in Alaska, spanning over five decades, and creating a beautiful family along the way with son, DJ and daughter, Shelly.
Mike is survived by his best friend and wife, Lynda Manley of the home, his son Duane "DJ" (Sarah) Manley, his daughter Michelle "Shelly" (Curtis) Pope, his grandchildren Devin (Ryan) Hayden-Young, Brandon Pope and Ceiara Burchett; great grandchildren, Poppy, Bennett and Jackson. Additional survivors include his siblings and their spouses, Lynda's siblings and their spouses, numerous nieces, nephews extended relatives and lifelong friends and co-workers.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Monk and Vernola Manley.
As we mourn the loss of our loving friend and family member, we find comfort in the words of Dr. Seuss, "Don't cry because it's over, smile because it happened." Mike's life was filled with smiles, laughter, and love, and for that, we are eternally grateful.
We invite you to join us in celebrating Mike's extraordinary life by sharing your favorite memories and photos on his memorial page wwww.dwbfh.com We look forward to hearing your stories and keeping Mike's spirit alive in our hearts and minds.
In lieu of flowers the family requests memorial contributions in Mike's honor can be made to the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. Donations can be made online or by mail to 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.
Following Mike's wishes, cremation has taken place. No public services are scheduled at this time. A future gathering may be scheduled at a later date.
