Mary Ann Manning

Mary Ann Manning of Ocean Park, Washington passed away on Mother's Day at home surrounded by family May 8, 2011, at the age of 74. Her loving, courageous spirit during a long battle with cancer was an inspiration. Mary Ann was born at the family farm near Birkenfeld, Oregon on April 19, 1937, the daughter of Francis and Helen Nordstrom. She attended school at Jewell and went on to college at Oregon State University, graduating with a B.A. and B.S. in Home Economics. She was active in college theater "National Collegiate Players," performing in several dramatic productions. She moved to California where she met her husband, Paul Patrick Manning. They were married in San Marino, California, June 19, 1965. Mary Ann was a home economist for the Los Angeles Herald Examiner and was a member of the LA chapter of the Home Economist's Association and director of the Junior Advertising Club of Los Angeles. She later worked at the Rowland Heights Library and for the Rowland School District. She loved reading and was patient and compassionate with children of all ages. She lived in Rowland Heights, California for many years, devoted to homemaking and care of her family. She and her husband moved to Ocean Park in 1995, where they have been members of the St. Mary's Catholic Church, and active in many community and church events and projects. Mary Ann was a member of the American Legion Auxiliary and the Ocean Park and Long Beach Lions' Clubs. This June, she and Pat would have been married 46 years. Among her interests, Mary Ann enjoyed travel, having visited Ireland and cruised on the Queen Mary II to Europe as well as cruises to New Zealand, Alaska, and Mexico. She loved attending Mariner baseball games, was an avid reader of mystery novels, and liked trying new recipes from her many cookbooks. Mary Ann loved cooking and baking with her granddaughters, Katie and Beth. They made cookies whenever they were together. Visiting friends and relatives, especially going to reunions and the annual Pioneers meetings, were among her favorite pastimes. In addition to her husband Pat, survivors include daughter and son-in-law Mary Patrice and John Lathrop of Roseville, CA; son Paul Matthew Manning of North Hollywood, CA.; brother Ronald Nordstrom of Ocean Park, WA; sister Kate Larsen of Lacey, WA.; grandchildren Kaitlin and Elizabeth Lathrop; several nieces, nephews and cousins. She was preceded in death by an infant son, Paul Patrick, and both parents. The memorial Mass will be held at St. Mary's Catholic Church, Seaview, Washington on May 14 at 3:00 p.m. followed by a reception at the Senior Center in Ocean Park. Inurnment will take place later this summer at Willamette National Cemetery in Portland. Memorial donations may be made to the Travis and Beverly Cross Guest Housing Center, 9320 S.W. Barnes Road, Portland, OR 97225 or Harbors Home Health & Hospice, 1600 Pacific Avenue South, Suite #2, Long Beach, WA 98631. Penttila's Chapel by The Sea is in charge of arrangements.