Obituary of John Joseph Manning Jr.

John Joseph Manning, born on March 8th, 1930, in San Francisco, passed away on
his 93rd birthday on March 8th, 2023, surrounded by his loving wife, children, and
grandchildren. While enjoying his birthday celebration with his family, John passed
away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of love, compassion, and kindness.
John served his country with honor and distinction during the Korean War, earning
two bronze stars, a combat infantry badge, a United Nations service medal, and an
overseas bar for his service in the U.S. Army from March 1951 to 1956. After his
military service, John began a 35-year career with Pacific Telephone, where he
worked tirelessly to provide for his family.
John moved his young family from Saratoga Ca to Capitola Ca in 1969, where they
lived for 31 years. He fell in love with Hawaii while on his first trip there with his
loving wife for their anniversary in 1999, and they decided to move there, where
they lived until December 2022.
In addition to his dedication to his work and his country, John was also a talented
craftsman who had a passion for working with wood and antique furniture. He and
his wife Donna started a new business in 1973 selling their creations, which they
called The Woodworm. Their handcrafted products, which included dollhouses,
jewelry boxes, mug racks, and refurnished children's furniture, were a testament
to John's skill and dedication to his craft. Today, the Woodworm Party Store is run by their oldest daughter Cherie, and has been a beloved part of the community for 50 years.
John is survived by his loving wife Donna of 69 years, their five children, Cherie
Robideaux, David Manning, Charles "Chuck" Manning, Karen Threkeld, and Betsy
Regis, as well as 13 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren. John will be
remembered for his kind heart, his unwavering loyalty to his family and friends,
and his passion for woodworking.
A celebration of John's life will be held on March 19th in Santa Cruz, where family
and friends will come together to honor his memory and say goodbye to a
remarkable man who lived a life filled with love, dedication, and hard work. Rest in
peace, John, and thank you for your service and your unwavering love and
devotion to your family and friends. You will be deeply missed.

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