Ernest C. Easy Manny, Jr.
November 7, 1925 ~ January 29, 2019
Ernest “Easy” C. Manny, Jr., 93, passed away January 29, 2019, at home. Born November 7, 1925, in Shawnee, OK, to Ernest C. Manny, Sr., and Bessie Smith Manny, he graduated from Pretty Prairie High School in 1944, and immediately enlisted in the Navy. He served aboard the USS Baltimore during Occupation Duty in Japan, later pursuing a career in the aviation industry. Trained at Spartan College of Aeronautics (Tulsa, OK), he first worked for Chance Vought (Dallas, TX), and later relocated to Boeing Military Aircraft Company, where he worked 38 years before retiring in 1990. Following his retirement, he was a founding volunteer at Kansas Aviation Museum, and was instrumental in the restoration of both aircraft and engines. His most memorable project was the Jacobs radial engine cutaway on permanent display, showing the internal workings and movement. Easy was preceded in death by his parents, sister, Patsy Gaile Hestand Ward, and brother, Robert S. Manny. Survived by his wife of 69 years, Charmis Secrest Manny; children, E.C. Manny III (Tamara), Wichita, Marta Manny Bukacek (Ron Fowler), St. Pete Beach, FL, Dale S. Manny (Annette), Overland Park, KS, Lora Manny, Wichita; and six grandchildren, E.C. “Pete” Manny IV, Kara Manny Hanna (Nick), Allyson Manny (Peter Conley), Nicole Manny, Casey Bradley, and Michael Manny. A viewing will be held from 4 to 6 p.m., Sunday, February 3, at Downing & Lahey Mortuary East, 6555 East Central, Wichita, KS, 67206. The memorial service will be held at 10 a.m., Monday, February 4, at the Kansas Aviation Museum, 3350 S. George Washington Blvd, Wichita, KS, 67210. A military graveside service will follow at 2:00 pm at the Lone Star Cemetery, Pretty Prairie, KS. Memorial contributions may be made to the Kansas Aviation Museum and to KPTS-8 Public Television.
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I met Pops once but really only knew him through the stories Lora shared. He was a good, kind and giving man who clearly adored his family and was deeply loved by them. His commitment to the Kansas Aviation Museum and love of aircraft was something that extended beyond himself to Lora and Casey.
I know hell be greatly missed, greatly remembered, and continue to be greatly loved.
I remember so clearly what a wonderful neighbor he was. He and his family helped ours to get settled in the community. I am glad to have known him so many years ago. Sending you all my deepest sympathy.
Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one today and always. ‘Easy’ was always a joy to work with.
May your love and memories overtake the grief. My thoughts are with Lora and the family right now.
Easy was a soft-spoken and gentle soul who touched everyone with whom he had contact. He contributed so much more than mere technical ability in the many years he volunteered at KAM, although his skills were indeed many. He was a friend and mentor whose memory will bring smiles to many.
Will think of Easy whenever I pass that beautiful radial engine he made. He was an artist and will be missed.
Fair winds and following seas sailor.
“Boatswain… Standby to pipe the side… Shipmates going Ashore…”
Thank you for your service to this nation.
I am so sorry for your loss. I remember meeting your husband/father at Stearman School quite some time ago when I was the music teachere there. He was such a nice gentleman who seemed interested in his children and how they were doing. I know he was so proud of you. Please know I am thinking of you and will keep you in my prayers.
I am truly and deeply sorry for your Loss. My warmest condolences go out to the family and friends of Ernest. May the God of all comport Grant you peace and strength during this difficult time (Psalm 91:11).
Lora & Casey, I am so sorry to hear of the loss of your sweet daddy and grandpa. I always enjoyed listening about your daddy, Lora. He was a good man and will leave quite a legacy. Take comfort in your memories of his life that was well lived.
What an incredible man! So many accomplishments. My heart and prayers go out to his beloved family. I did not have the honor of meeting him, but know his daughter, Lora. Her compassion and love has helped me tremendously. Daddy Earnest obviously did a great job. I know he will be missed by everyone who was lucky enough to know and love him.
Please accept our deepest condolences for your family’s loss.