Robert “Spencer” Manuel of Overland Park, Kansas, passed away peacefully, age 82, on February 17, 2025, in Kansas City, Kansas.
Spencer was born in Monet, Missouri, on January 15, 1943. He moved to Hoisington, Kansas with his family when he was eight years old; graduated from Hoisington High School in 1961, lettering in debate; and met the love of his life, Linda Jean Baker, in 1962. Spencer married Linda in 1963, and he was called to active duty in the Navy later that year, stationed in Norfolk, Virginia. Following his service, Spencer began a career in advertising, followed by twenty-six years with 3M – you may have received of one of the many care packages that he and Linda prepared over the years. Spencer was active in his church. He was an avid golfer, and he spent most weekends with his friends on the golf course.
Spencer was preceded in death by his mother, Doris Bancroft Manuel; his father, John Manuel; his brother, James “Jimmy” Manuel; and grandson, Matthew Manuel. Spencer is survived by his wife of 61 years, Linda Baker Manuel; sister Suzanne (Robert) Enriquez; sons R. Spencer (Chris) Manuel and Travis (Erin) Manuel; his grandchildren, Michaela (Evan) Wright, Olivia Wyrick, Zachary, Cooper (Payden), Sarah, and Scott Manuel; and his six great grandchildren, Jonah, Georgia, Gwen, Josephine, Cambria, and Milo.
Celebration of life will take place at St. Thomas the Apostle Episcopal Church, 12251 Antioch, Overland Park, Kansas, on Saturday, April 26, 2025, at 2:00pm. Services will be livestreamed on Facebook and YouTube for those who cannot attend in-person.
Spencer’s ashes will be interred in the Church Memorial Garden following the Service. A reception will follow.
Memorials can be directed to Midwest Transplant Network 1900 W. 47th Place Suite 400 Westwood, KS 66205. Midwest Transplant Network – Midwest Transplant Network.