Regina (Jean) A. Manning's Obituary
Regina (Jean) A. Manning passed peacefully in her sleep on November 6, 2018 at the age of 97. Regina was born on March 21, 1921 to Patrick Behan and Dora Grunkemeyer Behan in Norwood, Ohio. The oldest of 6 children, Regina grew up with the influence of her father’s Irish heritage and enjoyed the evenings when extended family would gather for sing-a-longs around the piano, always ending with their rendition of Danny Boy. Adventure intrigued Regina leading her as a young adult to move first to Florida and then (deciding by the flip-of-a-coin), on to Washington D.C. where she met the love of her life and future husband of 54 years, Manford (Mike) James Manning. Regina was a homemaker and avid golfer while raising their three children, Michael (Linda), Alan (Nancy) and Susie Rockwell (George). In her younger years Jean was instrumental in starting the Allenmore Childrens Hospital Guild and spearheading a campaign to plant flowering plumb trees along her neighborhood block on 18th Street in North Tacoma. She enjoyed beautifying her surroundings. Upon become an empty-nester, she opened a floral shop in Lakewood, WA named, “Just Because” flowers. There she kept Manford busy employing him as the delivery man and together they enjoyed creating and delivering bouquets of joy to unsuspecting recipients. Regina was a member of the Women’s Golf Division at Oakbrook Golf and Country Club for over 40 years. The golf course and bridge table were the stage for Jean to meet friends and stay active. Without doubt, Jean’s greatest accomplishment was seen in the pride she held for each of her family members, her 3 children, nine grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. As a widow Regina lived at Merrill Gardens in University Place and Sound Vista Village in Gig Harbor. The family wishes to thank each and everyone who had a part in attending to Regina’s needs at each residence. Your unconditional love and respect for the elderly, especially mom, will always be remembers with great appreciation. Regina is proceeded in death by her husband, Manford, all 5 siblings and her parents. A private funeral mass will be celebrated on Nov. 29th 2018 at Bellarmine Preparatory School’s Rectory Chapel.
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