Donna Manning Obituary

Donna Kay Manning, devoted wife, beloved mother, cherished grandmother, loyal family member, and friend, died peacefully on November 18, 2023, at home, after a long and brave battle with cancer, that started with breast cancer. In the six weeks leading up to her passing, Donna was lovingly cared for by her two sons, Michael Dean Manning and Cory Edward Manning.

Born in Des Moines, Iowa, on December 27, 1946, Donna was the daughter of Frank and Marian Medici and the sister of Karen Geneser. She is survived by two sons, two grandchildren (Maxwell Raymond and Jillian Kay), two amazing daughters-in-law (Jodi Sue and Tina Marie), her faithful dog, Charlie, her nephew Kendall Geneser (Sherri), their children Alex and Nick, niece Kelli LaLonde (Corey), their children Cole, Caleb, and Kaitlyn, and brothers and sisters in law: Matt and Sharon Manning, Jackie Manning, Bob Manning, Jan and Rick Bice, Mary Jane Manning, Frank Manning and Ann Stines, Barbie and Donny Harney, and scores of nieces and nephews.

At an early age, Donna exhibited an aptitude for performance, particularly music and dance, eventually becoming a classically trained pianist, studying at the University of Iowa. She had a beautiful singing voice and generously shared her talents by playing the piano and organ at thousands of church services and countless weddings and funerals.

In 1966, Donna married her soulmate and life partner, Michael Matt Manning, whose family includes many in-laws, nieces, nephews, and extended family members. They enjoyed 49 years of marriage and adventure, until Mike’s death in 2015.

Soon before they were married, Mike was drafted to serve in the Vietnam War, and after they married, the couple lived in Virginia, where they welcomed their first son, Dean. Donna describes those years in Virginia as “some of the best” of their marriage, because the two of them just had each other.

Donna was a dedicated public servant. She worked for the Polk County Conservation Board at Jester Park. Initially, she just wanted to work long enough to pay off her baby grand piano, but Donna ended up spending 38 years with the Conservation Board. She worked full-time, raised two sons, supported her husband in his endeavors, and somehow managed to put a meal on the table every night.

In her retirement, Donna enjoyed relaxing at home with Charlie and traveling to California and South Carolina to visit her sons and grandchildren and attend their sporting events and dance recitals.

Donna loved her home state of Iowa. She endeavored to visit every county seat in the state with Charlie in tow. She made it to 83 of Iowa’s 99 counties.

Donna will be remembered for her authenticity, her integrity, and her love of family and country. She loved playing cards, navigating a solitaire game on her iPad while simultaneously watching the news and talking on the phone, and chatting with family and friends.

Donna’s family wishes to thank the staff at Medical Oncology and Hematology Associates (MOHA) n/k/a Mission Cancer + Blood, and Dr. Angela Sandre and her right hand, Ramona Ferrari. Their care for Donna approached the divine. Additional thanks go out to Shelby and Sam at Mercy Hospice. Their support, expertise, and advice to Dean and Cory over the past several weeks were critical to Donna’s comfort. And finally, a special thanks goes to Trevis, whose dogged attendance at Donna’s weekly appointments in Dean and Cory’s absence, ensured that she was well cared for.

The family will receive friends at Assumption Catholic Church in Granger, where a visitation will take place on Tuesday, November 21 from 11am to 1pm, followed by a funeral service at 1pm. Memorial contributions may be made to the Animal Rescue League of Iowa, Inc. (arl-iowa.org). Online condolences are welcomed at IlesCares.com.

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