John “Lyle” Manning, 89, passed away on Wednesday, April 10th, 2024, in Wichita, KS. He was born on August 11th, 1934, in Stockton, MO, to Elias and Inez Manning. Lyle married beloved Goldie Faye (Hamby) Manning on December 13th, 1956, in Bolivar, MO, soon after moving to Ellinwood, KS, where they raised a family and enjoyed nearly 63 years of happy marriage.
Lyle saw the world as a young man while serving in the US Air Force starting in 1953, including memorable deployments in Greenland and France. After returning stateside, he began a career in the oilfields in 1957, retiring earlier this year after 67 years of service. His career was a great source of enjoyment and pride, and he was known for the relationships he built and the hard work and integrity he demonstrated daily. Many have memories of Lyle telling jokes and visiting with customers at Hi-La and spotting his truck driving slowly along the country roads north of Ellinwood. Most of all, Lyle loved and doted on his grandchildren and great-grandchildren who always brought a smile to his face.
Survivors include daughter Peggy Manning and son Greg (Arlene) Manning of Ellinwood, brother Norman (Marilyn) Manning of El Dorado Springs, MO. Grandchildren include Alicia Manning, Keith (Sua) Herl, Charlie (Santia) Manning, Brent (Erica) Manning, Shane Herl, Jared (Jessica) Manning, as well as 13 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild. Lyle was preceded in death by wife Goldie, parents Elias and Inez Manning, daughter Carla Herl, infant son Curtis Dean Manning, sisters Imogene Hembree, Marjorie Thompson, and infant twin sisters Beaulah and Ester Manning, and brothers Eugene Manning, Lee Manning, Clifford Manning, and Glen Manning.