Mark J. Manning

Mark Jay Manning 65, of Sterling Heights, MI, passed away on March 3rd, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family. A legend to many, Mark had a gift for bringing people together-whether through the meals he cooked, the music he loved, or the laughter he inspired. His passion for food wasn't just about cooking; it was about sharing and gathering. From the simplest comfort meals to elaborate feasts, his kitchen and his grill were always a place of warmth, conversation, and complete happiness. If you left his home hungry, that was on you. His love of music knew no boundaries. From classic rock to jazz, country to blues, he found joy in every note and could always be counted on to introduce family and friends to their new favorite song. And if there was music playing-anywhere-he was singing along. But he never sang a song quite the way it was written. He had a talent for changing the lyrics, sometimes subtly, sometimes completely, always in a way that made everyone laugh. His garage was his kingdom, a place where stories were told, laughs were shared, and time slowed down. Whether he was watching golf, listening to music, or just spending time with family and friends, his garage was always open. And if you sat down at his euchre table, you'd better bring your A-game-though win or lose, there was always another round, another joke, and another memory in the making. Above all, Mark was a devoted family man. His deep love for Sandy, his children, grandchildren, and extended family, relation or chosen, was unwavering. He was the kind of person who could turn an ordinary day into a cherished memory, often with a joke so perfectly timed it became legendary. His sense of humor was as much a part of him as his kind heart, quick-witted, playful, and always ready with the perfect one-liner. He was loved by many and will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. Mark leaves behind the love of his life & wife of 46 years, Sandy, his daughters Nicole (Caleb) Schlief, Heather (Antonio) Celeste, his grandchildren Noah, Elaina, Joseph, Daniel, Aviana, and Marcello. He also leaves behind his siblings Kevin (Becky), Marian (Bill), Charles (Sandra), and Dolores (Luis), as well as many nieces, nephews, and great friends that thought of him as a father. He preceded in death by his sister Diana. His legacy of love, laughter, music, great food, and unforgettable garage hangouts will live on in the hearts and stories of those who knew him. A celebration of Mark's life will take place on Sunday, March 9, 2025 with a visitation from 12pm-6pm with a funeral service and military honors service at 3pm from the Wm. Sullivan & Son Funeral Home 8459 Hall Road (3 Blks E. of Van Dyke) Utica . Monday, March 10th at 12:30 p.m. interment at Great Lakes National Cemetery, Holly Township, Michigan. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you donate to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation

Mark J. Manning

January 14, 1960 - March 3, 2025