Kenneth G. Manning

Kenneth (Butch) George Manning, 65, of Harrisville, passed away Sunday, December 13, 2020 at McLaren Northern Michigan Hospital Petoskey, MI. Born January 23, 1955 to Kenneth Jay Manning & Florence Virginia (Loyer) Manning in Harrisville Township, MI, he was a lifelong resident of the area. Ken loved being and working outdoors, and that led him to open Lincoln Sand and Gravel & Lincoln Tool Company. Through his love of Snowmobile Racing, Ken was the promoter of the Lincoln Race for many, many years. From building the best track in the circuit to funding the race out of his own pocket, many times when sponsors were not available. He was called many times for his expert advice on other tracks being built. He was also a supporter of the Lincoln Lions, Alcona Fair, and the 4H programs. He was a big believer in supporting programs for the youth. He began a lifelong love of snowmobile racing as a teenager. Together with his brother Warren and Uncle George Loyer, their love of the sport grew. It extended over to include lifelong friends Joe James and Randy Scully and eventually the whole Manning family. Another great passion was fishing. Continuing the spirit of competition with friends and family, the three brothers, joined by cousin Norm Zolnierek, began tournament fishing in the 90's. Fishing many local tournaments as well as the Alpena Brown Trout, many great hauls were taken. Again, this expanded to include all family members over the years making great memories and stories. Recently he had begun enjoying the smaller fishing scene on Drummond Island, often with fishing friends Dick Arndt and brother-in-law Jim Roberts. No matter what he did in life, Ken believed it was always about family. Whether it was about multiple businesses, hobbies or anything else life brought his way, it included family. Ken is survived by his daughter Lilly Manning of Harrisville, two sisters: Sandra Dubie of Harrisville, and Lora (Jim) Roberts of East Jordan, two brothers: Warren Manning of Kissimmee, FL, and Rex (Sherry) Manning of Harrisville, nieces, and nephews: Jessica Dubie, Nick Dubie, Danica and Rylee Manning, Greg and Charles Manning, and several great nieces and nephews. Cremation arrangements were made through Gillies Funeral Home, Lincoln. Memorial services will be announced later. To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Kenneth G. Manning, please visit our flower store.