RISINGSUN – Gilbert E. Manecke, 91, of Risingsun, died Sunday (May 31, 2009) while under Hospice care at
Independence House in Fostoria.
An Army veteran of World War II, he served in the Northern Pacific Campaign, where he was in the Coast
Artillery in the Aleutian Islands; and in the European Campaign, where he was in the military police in
France.
For nearly 30 years he was a farmer. He also worked for Fostoria Distribution for 14 years as a dock
coordinator.
Mr. Manecke was a founding member of West Millgrove Community Volunteer Fire Department, and a former
member of First Church of God, Risingsun, where he was a church trustee and a member of the Builders
Class.
In later years, the lifelong Wood County resident enjoyed tending to his bird feeders, flowers and tomato
plants.
He also enjoyed athletics, especially following high school and collegiate sports. He was a multiple
varsity letterman during his years at Montgomery Township High School in Wayne, where he graduated in
1936.
Born April 15, 1918 at the family farm home just south of West Millgrove, to Ross and Lelia (Ecker)
Manecke, he married Donna R. Harrison on May 12, 1950, and she survives.
Also surviving are a son, Roger E., of Fostoria; a daughter, Nancy J. Manecke, Columbus; and three
granddaughters, Alisha Bankey, Cami Manecke and Lindsay Manecke, all of Fostoria.
He was preceded in death by seven brothers, William "Bill," Floyd, Robert "Bob" and
four who died in childhood; and two sisters, Helen Wagner and Catherine Alge.
At Mr. Manecke’s request, there will be no public visitation or funeral. His cremated remains will be
buried at a later date with a private service at River View Cemetery, West Millgrove.
Arrangements are being handled by Mann-Hare-Hoening Funeral Home, Fostoria.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Elmwood Athletic Boosters, c/o Elmwood High School, 7650
Jerry City Road, Bloomdale, Ohio 44817; Bridge Home Health and Hospice of Findlay; or a charity of the
donor’s choice.
Condolences may be shared at www.mann-hare.com.