Irene B. Mannen

Irene B. Mannen, 93, Topeka, passed away on Friday, December 24, 2010, at Homestead Assisted Living. Born September 26, 1917, the daughter of Ambrose and Anna Johnson, she was the ninth out of eleven children. The Johnson's were farmers in Cleburne, KS, where Irene learned to garden, sew and bake. After graduating from high school, Irene moved to Topeka with her sisters where she met and married the love of her life John R.B. Mannen on May 29, 1941. He preceded her in death on May 11, 1981

Although officially she had four grandchildren, many knew her as "Grandma Irene" and she would shower them with love and attention (and peanut butter cookies) just as she did her own. She resided most of her life in Topeka and was a member of Brookwood Covenant Church where she will be remembered for her loving smile, her willingness to help with church events, and especially for her baked goods which she so enjoyed sharing with members of the congregation.
She was also preceded in death by three brothers and six sisters. Survivors include her sister Doris (Jim) Cioffi; her children; Donna J. (Joe) Hartenbower of Overland Park, KS, John (Kathy) Mannen of Topeka, four grandchildren; Gretchen (Joel) Grade, Joel Hartenbower, Wendy Mannen, Scott Mannen, five great-grandchildren; Alexa Grade, Avery Grade, Nathan Mannen, Mercy Mannen and Naomi Mannen.

A graveside service will be 10 a.m., Tuesday, December 28, 2010 at Mt. Hope Cemetery, Topeka. A memorial service will follow at 11 a.m. Tuesday at the Bookwood Covenant Church 3601 SW 33rd St., Topeka, KS 66614. Irene will lie in state after 3 p.m., Monday at Penwell-Gabel Mid Town Chapel where the family will receive friends from 6-8 p.m. Memorial contributions may be given to Brookwood Covenant Church.