Francis Dean "Dean" Manning

Francis Dean “Dean” Manning lived a life defined by faith, curiosity, hard work, and generosity. From his beginnings on a South Dakota farm to a distinguished engineering career, military service, world travel, and a retirement devoted to learning, service, and those he loved, Dean approached every stage of life with quiet determination, humility, and joy. Dean was born on July 14, 1932, on his family’s farm in Garryowen, South Dakota, the second of seven children born to Gene and Isabell Manning. Growing up on the farm instilled in him a strong work ethic, an appreciation for the simple pleasures of rural life, and a lifelong love of South Dakota, where he returned annually, as long as he was able, to reconnect with family and friends. Dean attended grade school in Garryowen before graduating from Vermillion High School in Vermillion, South Dakota. He continued his education at the University of South Dakota, earning a degree in Mechanical Engineering. Dean’s curiosity and adventurous spirit led him to leave college for a while and set out to see America, hitchhiking to California and taking odd jobs along the way, embracing the opportunity to experience new places and meet new people. Before beginning his professional career, he worked on his family farm and proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Korean War, stationed in Germany. Dean joined Cooper Bessemer (later Cooper Industries) in 1960 where he built an accomplished forty-two-year career. His work took him from Ohio to California and eventually to Texas, where he retired. On June 25, 1961, Dean married Ann Blanchard, and together they made their home in Danville, Ohio, where they farmed and raised ten children. In 1981, Dean married Margee Myers, who became his beloved parter for the next forty-five years. Together, they build a life centered on faith, friendship, and adventure. They moved to Houston in 1995 and later settled in Montgomery, Texas. Retirement allowed Dean and Margee to pursue one of their greatest shared passions, travel. Together (and with friends) they explored much of the world, including memorable trips to Greece and Germany, while also enjoying countless journeys around the United States to visit friends and loved ones. Dean possessed a remarkable gift for mathematics and a genuine love of teaching, later volunteering countless hours tutoring children. Education remained important to both Dean and Margee throughout their lives, and together they generously supported Catholic education and many charitable organizations. Dean loved to laugh, especially when sitting around the table with his extended family or lifelong friends playing card games long into the night and reminiscing. His friendships endured for decades, a reflection of his loyalty, kindness, and genuine interest in others. He never hesitated to make time for a friend in need, often traveling to visit those who were ill or facing a difficult time. Throughout their later years, Dean and Margee were devoted members of St. Mary’s Catholic Church, where they generously shared their time, talents, and resources in support of the parish and its ministries. His Catholic faith remained the quiet foundation of his life and was reflected in the humility, compassion, and generosity with which he treated everyone he met. Dean is survived by his beloved wife of forty-five years, Margee Manning; his children, Letitia Bunge; Monna Manning (Jim Jasperse), Maura Manning (Ed Lamaze); Julie (Terry) Magid; Mary Manning (Marco Deon); Molly Manning (Lyle Thomas); Vicki (Mike) Frost; Michelle Manning (Greg Yarmen); and Melissa Manning (Joe Kline); his step-son, Robert (Sherrie) Myers; thirty grandchildren; his sister, Mary Ellen Whitehead; the mother of his children, Ann Manning; and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends. He was preceded in death by his beloved son, Maurice Manning; his stepson, Richard Myers; both of his parents; sisters Jeanette Blyth, Margaret Ann Bain, Jerry Livermore, and Candy Arch, and brother, John Manning. Dean will be remembered for his quiet wisdom, boundless curiosity, generous spirit, and deep, abiding faith. His life was one of devotion, service, laughter, and love, and his legacy will continue in the lives of all who were fortunate to know him. The Funeral Liturgy will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, August 22, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 8227 County Road 205, Plantersville, Texas. A luncheon will immediately follow the Mass. Memorial donations in Dean’s honor may be made to the St. Vincent De Paul Society c/o St. Mary’s Catholic Church (address above). The family kindly asks that you let them know of your donation so that they may express their appreciation.

Francis Dean "Dean" Manning

July 14, 1932 - July 22, 2026