Leslie Manning

Leslie "Les" Manning, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away on October 27, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of love, service, and dedication. Born on January 27, 1949, in Broken Bow, Nebraska, Les was the beloved son of Gordon and Dorothy (Drake) Manning. Les spent his formative years on a cattle ranch south of Comstock, Nebraska, where he cultivated a love for the great outdoors and a strong work ethic. After attending college for two years, he bravely served his country as a firefighter, or "smoke chaser," on the Boise Forest in Idaho during the summers. In October 1969, Les joined the Navy, serving proudly with VF 124 at NAS Miramar, north of San Diego, California. His four years of service laid the foundation for a life characterized by dedication and resilience. Upon his return to Nebraska, Les continued his education in Hastings, where fate would have him meet Sandra Wyatt, the love of his life. They were married on July 17, 1976, in Superior, Nebraska, embarking on a journey together that would span over 50 years. The couple began their life together in Ogallala, Nebraska, where their first son, Matthew, was born. A few years later, they settled in Broken Bow, welcoming their second son, Marcus, into the world. Les built a successful career with Becton and Dickinson, dedicating 30 years to the company while simultaneously serving his community as a volunteer firefighter for over three decades. His commitment to service extended beyond his professional life, as he was an active member of the United Methodist Church in Broken Bow and the American Legion Post in Comstock. Les also enjoyed the camaraderie of the Elks Club in Broken Bow. An avid outdoorsman, Les found solace in the natural world, particularly through fishing and hunting. He often joked that fishing, whether on open water or ice, was cheaper than a psychiatrist. His hunting adventures were diverse, ranging from predators to waterfowl, and he cherished the peace and fulfillment these hobbies brought him. Les is survived by his devoted wife, Sandra, his sons Matthew Manning and wife Janka of Papillion, Nebraska, and Marcus Manning and wife Kristin of Denver, Colorado. He was the proud grandfather of four wonderful grandchildren: Colon and Elliot of Denver, and Dominique and Alex of Papillion. His sister Sonya Cheliewski and her husband Kevin of Cairo, Nebraska, also survive him, along with numerous friends and extended family members who will miss his warmth and humor. Predeceased by his parents, Gordon and Dorothy Manning, and his grandparents Fern and Leslie Manning and Virginia and Hugh C. Drake, Les leaves a legacy of love and service that will be remembered for generations. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Wounded Warrior Project, an organization dear to Les's heart, located in Jacksonville, Florida. Les's life was a testament to the values of hard work, love, and community service. He will be profoundly missed by all who knew him, but his spirit will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to share in his journey.