Dec. 11, 1945 – Nov. 20, 2024
Gene Maners, 78, of Rochester, transitioned peacefully from this world to be with his Savior on Nov. 20, 2024, surrounded by the love and presence of his family. Though he is no longer with us in body, his spirit endures forever in the hearts of everyone who knew and loved him.
Emmett Eugene was born on Dec. 11, 1945, in Spencer, to Arthur and Anna Kaiser Maners. He graduated with the Class of 1964 from Spencer High School, and it didn’t take long for him to set off on a path of purpose. Shortly after graduation, Gene joined the U.S. Air Force as a jet mechanic, where he served for four years, achieving the rank of sergeant before his honorable discharge in 1970. His time in the service wasn’t just a chapter in his life – it was part of the foundation of his commitment to serving others, whether it be his country, his community, or his family.
On Sept. 2, 1977, Gene married Carol Horn at St. John Lutheran Church in Rochester. Their love and partnership spanned over 47 years, filled with shared moments of joy, adventure and deep connection. Together, they created a life that was rich in experiences and full of love, grounding each other through all of life's adventures.
Gene's professional life was a testament to his versatility and work ethic. He was a propane parts salesman, worked at the Farm Bureau COOP all throughout Indiana, flipped houses and owned several rental properties. He also co-owned the 101 Club with his brother Bud, which became a cornerstone tavern of the town of Spencer. Gene’s approach to life was practical, yet always infused with an awareness that everything is interconnected. His work was not just about the tasks at hand, but about the relationships he built and the community he nurtured.
In addition to his professional endeavors, Gene was a devoted leader in the local veterans' community. He served as commander of the Manitou VFW No. 1343, quartermaster of the American Legion No. 36, as well as a trustee. He was a member of the Fulton County Veterans Honor Guard. Gene was the proud recipient of a 50 years of service plaque from the American Legion. His service to others didn’t end with his military career; it extended to the community, where he continued to give his time and energy, always with a quiet sense of purpose.
Outside of his many responsibilities, Gene found solace and joy in the act of creation. A master woodworker, he crafted heirloom gifts – each piece created with care, precision and love. From toy barns to dollhouses, hutches to quilt racks, and even a fireplace mantel, his hands built more than just objects – they built lasting legacies. Through his craftsmanship, Gene demonstrated how the simple act of creation can transcend the material and reach into the realm of the eternal.
Gene was also an avid golfer, and he enjoyed spending time with his veteran buddies at the local VFW or American Legion. But perhaps the most endearing of his qualities was his “back seat driving” – a skill honed during his many days on the road for his job. His knack for offering guidance and advice, even when it wasn’t requested, was second to none. While many may have joked about it, those who knew Gene understood that his words were always offered with love, intention and a deep care for those around him.
Gene’s life serves as a reminder that we are more than our bodies, more than our roles and titles. His presence on this Earth may have shifted, but his energy – his spirit – remains as a primary source of life's fabric.
Gene is survived by his wife Carol Maners, of Rochester; his children, Lynn Highland (Tom), of Pensacola, Fla., Kim Bowyer (Dave), of Kewanna, Chris Maners (Sandi), of Albion; daughter-in-law, Kristine Carmichael, of San Diego; nine grandchildren, Erika Yates, Christina Flenar (Wes), Megan Bowyer, Whitney Yates, Tabbetha Moran (Jordan), John Maners, Fabiola “Fabi” Maners, Kylie LaPorte (Matthew), and Karson Carmichael; and numerous great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents; infant daughter, Ericka Maners, 3 years old; son, Kirk Carmichael; grandson, Bryan Haltom; granddaughter, Samantha Yates; sister, Imogene Hayes; and brother, Arthur “Bud” Maners.
As we move forward, we know that while Gene has left his Earthly body behind, his soul continues to guide and inspire us, reminding us that love and spirit are eternal. His energy, his light and his love will continue to ripple through the lives of all who carry him in their hearts.
A celebration of life for Emmett “Gene” Maners is at 2 p.m. Nov. 30, 2024, at Heartland Church, 321 E. Eighth St., Rochester. His family will greet friends from 11 a.m. until this time of the service. Chaplain Kurt Nichols will officiate. The Fulton County Veteran's Honor Guard and the United States Air Force Honor's Team will accord military honors.
Gene's spirit lives on in the stories we share, the memories we cherish and in every action that reflects his kindness, his humor and his unwavering love. Memorials may be made to DAV Van Fund: 815 Main St., #102, Rochester, IN 46975, or the Samantha Yates Memorial Fund through the Northern Indiana Community Foundation: 227 E. Ninth St., Rochester, IN 46975. The Good Family Funeral Home is assisting his family with arrangements. Online expressions of sympathy may be made to the family at www.goodfamilyfh.com.
