Norman Allen Manning

Norman Allen Manning, 94, El Dorado Springs, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Friday, July 24, 2026, passing peacefully surrounded by his wife, children and pastor.

He was born Dec. 20, 1931, in Fairplay, MO, a son of the late Elias (Bill) and Inez Manning.

Norman answered the call to serve his country with courage and distinction on Sept. 16, 1949. He proudly served in the United States Army for over 22 years. He served in the Korean War as well as the Vietnam War where he was wounded on his second tour and was awarded the Silver Star and Purple Heart for his bravery and dedication. As a decorated soldier he also earned two Bronze Stars, the Meritorious Service Medal with one Oak Leaf Cluster, the Army Commendation Medal with one Oak Leaf Cluster and the Combat Infantry Badge with Star (denoting second award). He retired in 1972 at the rank of First Sergeant (E-8).

While in the service, he met and married the love of his life, Marylin Delp on April 1, 1955. They lived in different locations throughout his military career which include three tours in Germany where their children were born.

After his military service, he went on to build and run his own successful business, Bill’s Coffee Service in Detroit, KS, which he later passed down to his son.  He enjoyed bowling with friends, fishing and hunting.  He and his wife spent summers with their grandchildren attending their ball games.

They continued their love of traveling after their retirement by going on several trips all over the United States and internationally. They spent many hours tending to their growing garden filled with many fruit trees.  He never met a fruit tree he didn’t want to plant.  His children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren all helped care for the garden and he loved to share what he grew with anyone he could.

Norman was a faithful servant of Christ and an active member of the Union Hall Baptist Church. He loved to share Christ’s love with many people and enjoyed reading the bible with his wife every morning.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 71 years, Marylin; his children, Steven and Carolyn; four cherished grandchildren and eight precious great-grandchildren.

Services were held at Bland-Hackleman Funeral Home Saturday, Aug. 1. He was laid to rest in Greenwood Cemetery in Clay Center, KS.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.