Manley E. Bowman, 90, of Galesburg, passed away on Tuesday, February 13, 2024, at the OSF Richard L. Owens Hospice Home, Peoria.
Manley was born on September 20, 1933, in Galesburg. He was the son of Joseph and Lilian Palmer. He married Elizabeth Phipps on February 20, 1953. Together they celebrated 38 years of marriage before she preceded him in death on July 21, 1991. He later married Ann Brandt in October 17, 2004. They celebrated 6 years of marriage before her death on February 5, 2010.
Surviving Manley are his children, Shelley K. (Robert) Wetterow of Galesburg, Kevin L. Bowman of East Galesburg and Wendy Bowman of Galesburg; two grandchildren, Kimberly Beaird and Chad Beaird; two great-grandchildren, Dakota Shaw and Bryce Theobald; four great-great-grandchildren, Lilli Shaw and Brooklynn, Brionna and Kota Blodgett; a brother Timmy Ezard of Iowa; and a nephew, Larry Lantau of Iowa. Along with his wives, he was preceded in death by his parents, sister-Shirley Jean Lantau, nephew-Ricky Lantau and an adopted great-granddaughter, Shelby Utsinger.
Manley attended Galesburg Schools. He was a press operator at Maytag for over 40 years, retiring in 1992. He was a member of the Community Chapel of East Galesburg. Manley was a volunteer firefighter of the village of East Galesburg for over 50 years. He also volunteered and was known around the East Galesburg area as Santa Claus for over 50 years. He was a founding member of the Knox County Illiteracy Coalition, traveling to Washington D.C. to advocate for reading programs in Illinois. Manley was also a member of the Knox County TRIAD, homecoming committee, CB Breakers Club and the East Galesburg Elementary PTO. When he was able to find some free time, Manley loved to fly gas powered and remote-control air planes. He was loved by all and never knew a stranger.
The family would like to thank the staff at WoodRidge Supportive Living Residence, OSF Hospice, and the OSF Richard L. Owens Hospice Home for their loving care of Dad.
Cremation rites have been accorded. Graveside services will be 11 a.m., Friday, February 23, 2024, at the Knoxville Cemetery. Rev. Danny England will officiate. A celebration of life will follow graveside services starting at noon at the East Galesburg Community Chapel. Hurd-Hendricks Funeral Homes and Crematory are assisting the family with arrangements. Memorials may be made to the East Galesburg Community Chapel. On-line condolences and/or expressions of sympathy may be sent through www.hurd-hendricksfuneralhome.com.
