Joan Manning

Joan 'Joann' Manning, age 94, went onto her eternal home on September 20, 2024. Born June 29, 1930, in Kalamazoo, the daughter of Stanley and Alice (Gernaat) Mason. On May 7, 1949, she was united in marriage to Bernard J. Manning, until his passing in 2018. Joan was filled with joyfulness, a great sense of humor, and her deep faith in her Lord and Savior, which was evident to all who knew her. As long-time members of both Bethel Baptist and Calvary Bible Church, she was involved in teaching Sunday School, singing in the choir, and many other activities. Devoted to her family - she hosted countless holiday and special events well into her 90's. Besides being a busy mother of three, Joan worked at The Upjohn Company, school bus driver for Portage Public Schools, telephone operator at Bell Telephone, and several other part-time jobs. Above all, Joan loved her family; she was a caring wife, mother, sister, grandmother and great-grandmother, who leaves behind the legacy of a life well lived. She is survived by three children; Steven Manning, Keith Manning, and Patricia (Jack) Fleming; eight grandchildren, twelve great-grandchildren, brother Larry (Leah) Mason; nieces, nephews, and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; brothers Neal & Jim Mason. According to her wishes cremation has taken place. A celebration of Joan's life will be held at 11:00a.m., Saturday, October 12, 2024, with a luncheon following at Calvary Bible Church, 855 S. Drake Rd., Kalamazoo, MI 49009. A private interment will be at Ft. Custer National Cemetery at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to Calvary Bible Church, c/o Joldersma & Klein Funeral Home, 917 S. Burdick St., Kalamazoo, MI 49001-2731. Family & friends may share a condolence message online at www.joldersma-klein.com.