Robert "Bob" Manning

Robert "Bob" Manning, 77, of Robinson, IL, passed away on September 15, 2024, at Crawford Memorial Hospital. Born on November 16, 1946, in Robinson, he was the son of Ray & Letha (Snider) Manning, both of whom preceded him in death. He was also preceded in death by his sister, Ruth Ann Comer. Bob is survived by his beloved wife of 55 years, Marilyn (Thomas) Manning, whom he married on August 16, 1969. He is also survived by his two daughters, Robin Shryock & significant other Scott Eichhorst of Olney, IL, and Torie Manning of Robinson, IL; by his granddaughter, Delaney & husband Ethan Steber of Claremont, IL; and by his former son-in-law, Jason Shryock. His family, the cornerstone of his life, cherished him deeply.

Bob grew up in Yale, IL, and loved to joke that he attended "Yale," a story that often amused others when they later learned he meant the small town in Illinois. After graduating from Yale Grade School in 1960, Bob went on to graduate from Newton High School in 1964. Shortly after, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, ready to serve his country with a sense of determination and selflessness that would define his life.

At 19, Bob expected to begin training in Hawaii but was soon thrust onto the front lines in Vietnam, where he served as a bulk fuel engineer at Da Nang. His time in Vietnam spanned two tours, during which he demonstrated unwavering bravery. Bob's second tour brought him back during the tumultuous Tet Offensive in 1968, where he fought in fierce battles such as Hue City and the Can Tho Bridge. These experiences forged in him a strength that few could comprehend. His dedication to his country did not end there. Bob continued his military career by joining the Illinois Army National Guard's 34th "Red Bull" Division in 1981. Over the next couple of decades, he contributed to operations like Iran-Contra and innumerable classified missions before bringing his military career to a close in 2006. His military comrades often spoke of his leadership and tenacity, noting how his seemingly friendly demeanor belied the indomitable spirit he showed in the field.

Back home, Bob continued his legacy of service in his community. He worked for 30 years with GTE, building his reputation as a master technician and earning the affectionate title "the Telephone Man" from his family. His daughters fondly remember him as the family's unofficial IT Department, always willing to tackle any technical challenge that came his way. An active leader in the Robinson community, he continued to tackle challenges by serving on the Robinson City Council. Bob believed deeply in local government and dedicated himself to the role of Township Assessor before stepping into the position of Township Supervisor. All told, he provided Robinson with over 30 years of good and meaningful service.

Bob's dedication to the people around him extended beyond his official positions. He coached girls' softball, led Troop 901 as Scoutmaster, and served as Cubmaster for Pack 327 and on the board for the Camp Fire Girls. He was a charter and life member of the Marine Corps League and of the Othniel Looker Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution (SAR). A man of faith, Bob was a member of Highland Church of Christ and was active in the Robinson VFW Post #4549, the Central Wabash Archaeology Chapter, and the Crawford County Historical Society, where he served as a board member and vice president. It was evident that Bob's life was defined by his desire to serve, whether through military service, public office, or community involvement.

He also made a lasting impact teaching telecommunications at Lincoln Trail College, where his students admired him for his wisdom, patience, and good humor. It must be said that Bob balanced his serious commitments with a light-hearted sense of humor throughout his life. He loved to make people laugh, often with a mischievous smile or a funny face in photographs. His playful spirit and good-natured teasing brought joy to family gatherings and left lasting impressions on everyone he met. He had a knack for befriending people wherever he went, whether in his hometown or during his many travels across the globe with Marilyn. Their adventures took them to places like China, Israel, and Spain, and he especially cherished his trip to Africa, a highlight of his incredible life.

Bob Manning will be remembered not only for his long list of accomplishments but for the man he was - a devoted husband, a loving father and grandfather, a loyal friend, and a pillar of the city of Robinson. He leaves behind a family who adored him and a community that has been shaped by his unwavering commitment to service and his desire to make the world around him a better place. In every way that mattered, he did just that.

A time of visitation will be held from 9:00-11:00 a.m. on Thursday, September 19th, at the Goodwine Funeral Home in Robinson. Funeral services will immediately follow and be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, with Pastors Rich Swisher and Mike McElyea officiating. For those unable to attend, a live stream of the service will be available at www.goodwinefuneralhomes.com/live-stream/live-stream .

In honor of his years of service to the organization, memorial contributions may be made to the "Crawford County Historical Society". Memorial envelopes will be available at the funeral home. Burial will be in the Robinson New Cemetery, where military honors will be conducted by the U.S. Marine Corps.