In Remembrance

Michael Cody Manning’s 29 years of life were packed full of love, fun, and lively activities with friends, family, and his many caregivers. Born at only 1 pound 11 ounces, Michael’s extreme premature birth gave him Cerebral Palsy and some complications associated with it. Although, Michael never let physical limitations stop him from experiencing the fullness of life.

Michael enjoyed charter fishing, sailing, downhill skiing, dog sledding, horseback riding, snowmobiling, 4 wheeling, bowling, and even rode a Harley. He also loved music, cooking, baking, and attending parties. A few highlights from school years include singing in choir, playing percussion in different bands and in the Christmas City of the North Parade twice, and dancing at prom. Michael was also a tireless advocate, not only for himself but others as well. He spoke at state conventions about advocacy. He was in many organizations, including a time as President of People First.

Thanks to Michael’s huge smile and playful sense of humor, many people found themselves instantly drawn into his magnetic, unconditionally loving orbit. Michael had a compassionate and unassuming way of helping people understand what was truly important in life. He was a pure joy to be around and will be greatly missed by everyone who knew him, including his respite care providers through ARC Northland and then DRCC, Paul and Dana Bergstrom, and also the countless, wonderful caregivers who helped him to live as independently as possible in DRCC’s group homes over the last 8 years.

Michael left this world peacefully, surrounded by the love of many family members, close friends, and several DRCC group home and Essentia Hospice staff on November 23, 2021. He is survived by his parents, Paul and Cathy Manning. He is also survived by many aunts, uncles, cousins, and endless friends. Michael was especially close to Lynn, Dale, Sara, Stuart, Fred, Jenny, Annie, Mike, Melody, Jason, Rachelle, Molly, Caitlin, Paul, Dana, and Mary White. He is preceded in death by his grandparents Stan and Val Lepak and Bob and Jan Manning.

A Celebration of Life will be held Clyde Iron Works in Duluth on Saturday, December 18^th from 1-4 pm. Michael experienced 29 years of so much absolute love we are certain that he’s sharing it all Above.