Robert Manley Obituary
Dr. Manley is survived by his wife of 58 years, Phyllis; children, Bob Manley Jr., Tooele, Utah; Janet Keller, Lincoln; Carol Miller, Lincoln; John Manley, Kearney; Kelly Manley, Sacramento, Calif.; Susan Miller, Overland Park, Kan.; Joy McArtor, Lincoln; Becky Richardson, Lincoln; 22 grandchildren; seven great grandchildren.
A family graveside service will be held at the Hoyt Cemetery in Hoyt, Kan. No Viewing or Visitation. Memorials may be sent to City Impact, 400 North 27th St., Lincoln, NE 68503; or to a charity of one's own choosing. Arrangements by Butherus, Maser & Love Funeral Home. Condolences may be left @ www.bmlfh.com
This obituary was originally published in the Journal Star.
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Jerry Berberet
October 17, 2022
Robert Manley was one of the most significant mentors in my life. At a transitional time entering NU graduate school in history he took me under his wing. I was able to bring my knowledge of horses and fencing to his family and children in the start of a beautiful friendship. I send love and best wishes to all his family, as I have entered my 80th year!
Jerry Berberet
May 10, 2021
Bob Manley was my graduate school history mentor at Nebraska University and great family friend. One of my earliest memories is his eagerness to use my Montana ranch experience to gentle his horses for his young children to ride and building fence to contain them. One summer I painted his house, enabling me to spend a month in Mexico bringing to life my study of Mexican history. He had a wonderful singing voice and traveling with him to small Nebraska communities where he played the guitar and sang folk songs of their pioneer heritage was a moving experience.
Gary Danskin
November 10, 2020
Its 2020 i’m reading my great Aunts book. She was an educator after leaving the mission field because of WWIi. She had met the doctor as she had taught. She had showed founders of Hastings Ill which was on little house on the prarie by I Wilder which the Doc Manley helped with she asked him for a visit with him which he did teaching the children 12-15 yrs old. What a great man and his heart continues in the souls of these folks. Thanks you Dr Manly sincerly Gary Danskin nephew of Elsie May Danskin
Duncan Nichol
March 17, 2009
Dr. Manley was my history teacher and advisor during my years as a student at The Hiram Scott College
in Scottsbluff, 1966-70. (My home state is New York). He also served as a reference for me on applications to seminary. He was so inspirational and easy to talk with. I've always loved history and he made history come alive! The entries in this guest book are testimonies
to a beautiful man of faith, character, and a life well lived. The last times that I saw him were at the Struhr Museum and on the "Today" show for the 1976 Bicentennial featuring Nebraska.
I learned of his death upon accepting
a call as pastor of the First Presbyterian Church in Tekamah, NE.
My sympathy on your great loss.
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Skip Goforth
March 3, 2009
Dr.Manley taught History at Hiram Scott College in Scottsbluff, when I was a Freshman, 1969-70.
Best teacher I ever had. At Christmastime, he invited us homesick Freshman to his house for hot chocolate and snacks. I loved that man.
Bob Manley
November 22, 2008
Our sincere thanks to Mark and Jeanette for taking care of Dad's Guestbook.
It is truly, truly appreciated.
John Waddell
November 20, 2008
How memories flood back about Dr. Robert Manley. If you are over 45 years of age or so and from Nebraska, you'll remember how this wonderful man taught thousands of the state's 4th graders to love and appreciate "Beautiful Nebraskaland!" His weekly broadcasts, on-site at many of the state's historical areas gave students a wonderful look and an early appreciation of our state. Seeing my 4th grade teacher in Gering's Lincoln Elementary wheel in the big black and white television every Tuesday to tune into Dr. Manley's television show is an often thought of and treasured memory of mine. Bring those shows back NETV! Oh how wonderful it would be to hear Robert Manley singing "Beautiful Nebraska" to all of us once again. Rest in peace Dr. Manley and thank you from a proud fellow Nebraskan.
kristi fisher
November 6, 2008
Dr. Manley led our community Buffalo County 2000, and I had the honor of working with him. He later spoke to my high school English classes about the importance of coming back to their community after college. He touched so many lives in such a positive way. Thanks to you(his family) for sharing him with us. My heartfelt sympathy--kristi fisher
Dennis Ernest
November 2, 2008
To the family of Robert Manley, I just want to add a few words of condolence. I'm one of those Nebraskans who watched Dr. Manley on NETV in 4th grade, learning our state's history. (Dalton, NE) I attribute much of my continued love of history and appreciation of our state to him. I had the opportunity to meet him at the base of Chimney Rock during a celebration of the Oregon Trail a few years back. He had given a wonderful interpretation of a traveler along the trail that evening. I also was also delighted to meet him and hear him speak at a Nebraska Humanities Council sponsored event in Gering. He had a great knowledge of our state and its people, but beyond that, he knew how to express it and get across to people. He was a wonderful singer and story teller. I could listen to his beautiful voice all day. I'm saddened by his passing, but I'm honored to have met him and ever so thankful to have heard him and read his work.
GARY LUKERT
November 2, 2008
Robert Manley is the Best Teacher I ever had! I was in his American Government Class in 57/58. I also had him as a Phys Ed instructor for a Semester. I have always been extremely proud of having known him, and especially grateful of his contributions of Nebraska history. I am a proud Nebraskan (although living in Kansas the last 20 years...because of my work.) Robert Manley was not pretentious...I was only a C+-B-Minus student, but, he always treated me like I was somebody!
My deepest sympathy to his wife, Phyllis and his Children...all his Grandchildren, Great Grandchildren.
Connie Cline
October 31, 2008
To the Manley family especially to Phyllis, Janet & Carol
As I was in Lincoln visiting my ailing mother who was in the hospital I just happened to read in the obituaries about Robert. I was saddened to hear about your great loss. I have fond memories of Glory Bound, being at your home with Bible studies with your dad singing and playing the guitar. I remember his smile and how I could see the love of God in his life and how much of a witness to me and others he was. My prayers, thoughts and love are with you and the family. May you find much comfort and strength from the Lord and from your family and friends. He always made me feel part of your family which I will always remember and cherish.
The little drummer girl,
Connie Cline
Terri Alexander
October 31, 2008
Sorry to hear of your loss. I'm an old friend of Kelly & John's from the 70's. You're in my thoughts and prayers.
Cheryl (Juilfs) Lorenson
October 29, 2008
This is going -Way Back -to when some of the Manley children attended school in Walton.
I was in Johnny's class. If I remember right it was in Kindergaten and 1st grade. Johnny was all the 1st grade classes "hottie" A-L-L-L the girls thought he was s-o-o-o cute (and he was) Then the summer went by and no Johnny the next year at school... The Manley's had moved and all the girls were heart broken! (all 4 of us) I had heard of a town Named Manley... I thought they had named that town for Dr. Manley and that is where the family all moved too!! (remember I was VERY YOUNG) By the time I was in 4th grade at Eage Elementary Dr Manley was on NETV. WOW... he was a Star... and I knew his son!!.. Oh, the memories, all of that was forever ago!
I learned more about Nebraska in my 4th grade class and I can still remember most all of it some 30 yrs later. I am always telling someone a little something I learned from Dr Manley.
Dr Manley truly was a "Gift" to all of us that were able to dream and go to the old days of Nebraska with him..he made it all so "real" and interesting. He was quite a remarkable man!! He will be missed as a true Historian of "Our Nebraska" God bless the Family and Thank You for sharing your Husband and Father with all of us thru the years.
SHARI GUTHRIE-NENEMAN
October 29, 2008
DEAR PHYLLIS, AND BECKY AND YOUR ENTIRE FAMILY. I SAW IN THE OMAHA PAPER THAT YOUR HUSBAND AND FATHER PASSED AWAY. I JUST WANTED TO SEND A SHORT NOTE TO LET YOU KNOW THAT MY HEART GOES OUT TO YOU IN YOUR TIME OF SORROW .MAY YOU FEEL GOD STRONG ARMS AROUND AND UNDER YOU SUPPORTING YOU WITH HIS LOVE AND COMFORT. PLEASE BE ASSURED THAT MY PRAYERS AND THOUGHTS ARE WITH YOU.
Wanda Apperson
October 28, 2008
We never missed an installment of "Beautiful Nebraska" in Mrs. Stahl's 4th grade class at Eagle Elementary in Eagle, NE. Dr. Manley was THE fountain of all things Nebraskan and his engaging, calm manner drew us 4th graders in and made history come alive in a way no textbook ever could. (And, 30 years later, I can still sing all the words to "Beautiful Nebraska!")
My thoughts and prayers are with all of the Manley family.
bart gotch
October 28, 2008
Bob:
Sorry for your loss. My thoughts are with you and your family.
An old student from the past (Allen, NE)
Don Wesely
October 27, 2008
I first met Bob Manley as an Interstate Rest Stop Visitors Guide for the State of Nebraska. During our training Bob sang and told stories for us celebrating Nebraska's history. He has been a hero of mine ever since. I am sorry to hear of his passing and wish his family well.
Kelly Manley
October 27, 2008
Thank you to all who have made an entry and thank you for your prayers. Each entry is a blessing to me and my family. My father's professional accomplishments pale in comparison to his personal accomplishments for his family. Your prayers are invaluable to me as I strive to be the man my mother and father raised me to be.
Lynn Ellermeier
October 27, 2008
Dear Family, You are in my prayer.Lynn Ellermeier
Joyce Olsen
October 26, 2008
Dear Phyllis and Family,
When you and Bob came to Elderhostels at Heartland Presby. Ctr. in Kansas City, MO, you were greatly appreciated. Bob taught between 35 and 40 week- long Elderhostels to adults of all ages who with one voice thought he was the finest teacher they'd ever had. He masterfully filled his classtime with Trails West history, drama, pictures and music. In the evenings he often put on a special program of music or dramatized the life of Wm. Jennings Brian or Governor Furness. He was very particular how his classroom was set up for slides and microphones. Thus everything ing flowed efficiently. People came from all 50 states and Canada to hear him and to leave superior ratings for his presentations. Many came to hear him again and again. I always thought he did even better when you, Phyllis, came along for the week and visited your sisters. You were spreading Good News and joy even at mealtimes. Thank you for sharing this wonderful man with all of us. You are both greatly admired. Sincerely, Joyce Olsen of Johnson Lake, NE. P.S. I talked at great length yesterday to Barney Gilmer, our Heartland Center and EH host who enjoyed Bob so much.
Gene Armstead
October 26, 2008
Phyllis:
It's been over fifty years since I was a student in Dr. Manley's class in Seward, but I have never forgotten how he always made his classes something to look forward to.
But beyond that, I have never forgotten how kind he (and you) were to me back then. And in subsequent years, when he was working on his doctorate and we happened to meet on campus, he was always so supportive and encouraging.
He was one of the kindest people I've ever known.
Gene Armstead, Seward '57
St. Helena, CA
Dave Ferris
October 26, 2008
Our paths crossed very few times, but Dr. Bob had a profound influence on my life. First as a church camp counselor in 1955, again in 1968 presenting NE history via slides, song and monologue. In 1970 at a Layman's Retreat God used Bob's testimony to cause me to see my need to trust the Lord Jesus as my personal Saviour and Lord. His life was an inspiration to me and I extend my sincere sympathy to you at this time.
Priscilla Klintworth
October 25, 2008
My sympathies to the Manley family. I got to hear Mr. Manley speak a couple of times when he came to Sundermann Home in Seward (now Ridgewood) to talk to the Residents. They so enjoyed his presentations.
Betsy Johnson (Nash)
October 25, 2008
I have many good memories of the times I sang with him along with two of my friends during the summer of 1956. My husband (Alton) remembers him as a great baseball coach. God Bless His Memory
Gary Border
October 25, 2008
Bob Manley was an inspirational historian with whom I was pleased to work for several years. His "Listen to the Land" audio program spread his unique brand of history across the country. He was a pleasure to know.
Jeanette Lee
October 25, 2008
Bob & Phyllis are the nicest people. I just wish I got to know Bob better. Heaven is blessed. I'm glad that I got to be with this wonderful family just a few Wednesday's ago when Jami Smith was here. I'm listening to her music right now. Thank you!
Vivian Saner
October 24, 2008
I want to pay my condolences to the Manley family. What a great contribution of education Dr Manley has made and his efforts will continue to exist. I taught school with Bob for some years and shared his love for his father..Vivian Vandewege Saner(Cordova,NE)
Linda Robinson
October 24, 2008
Bob and Family,
I am so sorry for the loss of your dad. My thoughts are with you and Candy losing such an important person in your life. Reading the entries of those that knew him, it is obvious many feel the loss of a wonderful man.
The Clifton family
October 24, 2008
Manley Family:
We have great appreciation for the life of Bob Manley. He was a hero and celebrity in the early and growing years of SRI. Our Dad believed in his exceptional talent. He was a great teacher and Nebraska is a better valued place because of him.
Gene Arnold
October 24, 2008
Phyllis,
Our thoughts are with you in your loss. I have, on many occasions, and even recently, told about Bob's passion for people to tell their story before they die. His zeal for this was what prompted me to write my own story for my kids and grandkids. I have often thanked God for allowing our paths to cross. Each time I see my completed autobiography I remember Bob. Also, both of my sons benefited from the Leadership Tomorrow program. My younger son is running for his fourth term as a Hall County Supervisor.
Gene (and Bert, too) Arnold
Sandra Hladky (Alley)
October 24, 2008
Dear Family. I had the privilage of having Mr. Manley as a teacher at Seward. I graduated in 1963. He was a great teacher and speaker. I had the opportunity to hear him speak at other functions. He will be greatly missed. When your heart is empty, filling it with happy memories can help you find your smile
MICHAEL TAYLOR
October 24, 2008
My deepest sympathy for your loss.
Nick Fras
October 24, 2008
To the Manley family: Please accept our sincere condolences on Bob's passing. Having met Bob at a young age I will never forget how kind & down to earth he was. The family of Jim Fras is especialy thankful to him for his help in getting my dad's song adopted as our state song(Beautful Nebraska). His rendition of Beautful Nebraska was one of the best and we have played it often through the years. Nick & Karen Fras of Lincoln, Wally & Diane Fras of Fayettville Arkansas
Ellen (Langner) Gardiner
October 24, 2008
I remember well listening to Bob play his guitar and sing..and that smile, it will always be in my mind.
My family was proud to know him and the family...time goes so quickly.
God certainly has a special place in Heaven for him.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Julie Clark
October 24, 2008
Phyllis and family ~
I cannot remember a time of not knowing Bob. From church & playing at your home as a child to seeing & learning from him at the Stuhr Museum to hearing how the Manley's were from my mom. What a truly great man who will be missed. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
Carolyn & Ken Huibregtse
October 24, 2008
We were so sorry to hear of Bob's passing. We have many fond memories of Bible studies and sitting in his & Phyllis's living room on Pioneer Blvd in Grand Island singing choruses as Bob played his guitar. He inspired our interest in history with his many wonderful stories. We always loved to have a chance to hear him speak. Blessings,Love,& our Deepest Sympathy to Phyllis & Family
James Rupert
October 24, 2008
To Bob Jr.
Having gone to University High with you and worked with your Dad in the recording studio, I wanted to pass along my deepest and most sincere sympathies to you and your family during this difficult time. I hope you can all find peace and consolation in the fact that your father was a truly "good guy." And that's the best eulogy that any man can earn in his lifetime. Please know that you are in my thoughts, as well as some of my warmest memories. Your friend, Rupert.
Ann Grasmick
October 24, 2008
To the Manley Family
I have known your family all my life, although we have not been in touch I still have very fond memories. The most recent memories was how he sang at my brother Billy's funeral and then just last year at my father's funeral. My mother loved to hear him sing and was so proud to have him a part of those moments.
My heart goes out to all of you for I know all too well what it is like to lose a father. I will always be thankful for him taking the time to be such a special part of our lives.
Ann Grasmick
harold shaw
October 24, 2008
dear fannily odrbob, he was thegreatestwe had hun as ateacherun sewardhigh,gidbless you allstan and harold shaw
Amy McCord
October 23, 2008
Dear family, I am honored to have known Bob and some of you (Phyllis, John and Kathy mostly). He was so fun to talk with and listen to! And he touched so many lives! Now he's at rest with the Lord. My prayers go out for you all, knowing what a huge loss this is for you. God bless you all, Amy McCord
Robert/Barbara Sejkora
October 23, 2008
Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Bob and Barb Sejkora (Mesa AZ)
Scott Keller
October 23, 2008
A great teacher, husband, father, and grandfather. But most of all a great Example! The way he lived his life by example everyday is what I will remember most about my grandpa. He was the Rock and Solid Foundation of his entire family and we will miss him dearly. In the last few days I have found myself thinking a lot about his life...and my life, and I have found my mind taking me back to the same thought over and over again... that if I can be half the man that my grandpa was I will accomplish all that God has for me on this earth. We love you Grandpa and we all miss you.
Dave Meile
October 23, 2008
Im just an old friend of Bob Jr. & Kelley from many moons ago. I just wanted to express my sympathy on your dad's passing and hope your family will give you support and comfort.
Cindy Brunken
October 23, 2008
To the Manley Family,
My thoughts are prayers go out to you during this time of immense loss. Dr. Manley was a beloved Nebraskan and will truly be missed by all who watched him on TV. I grew up watching him.
Ken & Carolyn Sipes
October 23, 2008
We were privileged to have known Bob as a friend to all and a mentor to many. He will be missed.
Sharon (Reiling) Walton
October 23, 2008
My thoughts and prayers go out to Dr. Manley's family. He was a great teacher and a favorite of mine. I was in his Modern Problems class at Seward High School, and in his history class at the University of Nebraska. He touched all of us with his humor and genuine concern.
Sharon Reiling Walton
Class of '57
Maurine Mercer
October 23, 2008
Phyllis. My heartfelt condolences to you and your family. I remember the happy days of bible study in your home in Grand Island, many years ago. Your wonderful marriage made a big impact on a rough patch in my life. God be with you.
Matt Meister
October 23, 2008
As a child, my mom and I would sit together and watch Dr. Manley's show on TV. When he sang "Beautiful Nebraska" I knew it was time for us to go pick up my older brother at school. As one of 5 kids, I didn't get a lot of mom's time to myself, so I will always cherish our time with Dr. Manley. Just last Friday at the Children's Museum benefit auction, someone had donated a treasure chest about exploring Nebraska. As emcee, I announced the item by singing a few lines of our state song. I am glad that I got to share one more tribute to Dr. Manley before he passed. John, Kathy and girls, I am truly sorry for your loss.
Patsy Woodside
October 23, 2008
I first knew of Robert Manley when he presented an assembly to my junior high school many years ago. I also benefited from his advice when I interned for the Nemaha Valley Museum in Auburn in 1981. I will always remember him.
Mike McCann
October 23, 2008
To the family of Dr. Manley,
I am deeply saddened for your loss of Dr. Manley.
Nebraska has lost one of its greatest historians and easily one of the greatest teachers the state has ever known!
I had the opportunity to spend many, many hours with Dr. Manley in 1990 while going through the Leadership Tomorrow program in Grand Island. Following that time I stayed in touch for a while with Dr. Manley and let him know how profound of an impact he had on my life. I wrote him a 5 or 6 page letter sharing my thoughts on many topics he had taught us and discussed with us, both historical and philosophical.
I have re-read a copy of it many times to remind me of the things he taught me. Especially during hard times.
Perhaps one of the greatest gifts he shared with others was his true love of his fellow man and the desire for them to succeed.
Many times he spoke about "vision building". He loved the word "vision". In a letter he wrote to me dated December 24, 1990, he wrote: "The problem here is that we confuse vision-building with predicting the future. Vision-building is much broader and it speaks of values and beliefs more than it does of specific objectives. It is something you keep working at constantly".
Many times throughout the 18 years since I first met Dr. Manley, I have read and re-read his letters and words of wisdom. He also wrote me that according to "a Greek scholar", one Scripture should have had the word "meek" translated to "teachable" and the scripture really should read "The teachable shall inherit the Earth".
I am so proud to call Dr. Manley my friend and I continue to try to live up to his standards and to help others succeed! And of course to always have what he really wanted for us all...both "a personal vision" and "a community vision".
All my respect to a great man.
Judy Eccher
October 23, 2008
I met Dr. Manley through a church function in the early 1980's. I watched his exchanges with people. He impressed me as a true edifier, someone who tried to draw out the best in each person. He encouraged them to grow and challenge themselves. He made a difference, it showed on peoples smiles on their faces and lifted up shoulders. He inspired me and I have thought of his influence from time to time since then. And what a booming voice and infectious laugh! He will be missed!
Leonard Skov
October 23, 2008
I was blessed by the opportunities to talk, listen and share ideas and stories with Dr. Manley. His "Evening With Dr. Manley" at the Archway last May was a typical blend of stories, teaching and just a good time.
Jenny Johnson
October 23, 2008
We miss you already, Grandpa.
Roger and Lisa Bowie
October 23, 2008
Our thoughts and prayers go out to John and the rest of the Manley family at this time of your loss.
Jean (Thomas) Becker
October 23, 2008
Dr. Manley was a wonderful teacher as well as historian. He made history class at Seward High come alive for me. The state of Nebraska was a better place thanks to Dr. Manley
Robert Manley III
October 23, 2008
My Grandfather was a man of rare excellence. He taught me that it is a man's character and principles which will determine the course of his life. He was, indeed, a man of great principle and character. To see this, one needs only to consider his constant dedication to his family, his state and the people of Nebraska. We will not see another man like him. He will be sorely missed.
John Belz
October 23, 2008
A great man. I still remember watching his Nebraska History program on ETV when I was in grade school. I loved hearing him sing the Nebraska song as he walked along the railroad tracks. There are many things I know about this state by watching his show and having our teacher quiz us afterwards. He was a great Nebraskan.
Tom Ward
October 23, 2008
Dr. Manley sparked an interest in history from a very early age. He also gave a tour of the downtown Grand Island area that was jaw dropping. I would have never imagined so much history occured in my own home town. Thank You Dr. Manley you will be remembered and missed.
Tom Ward - Des Moines, IA
Donna Wieseman
October 23, 2008
Dear Phyllis and family,
Please know my thoughts and prayers are there with you in the loss of your loved one. Bob was a great person in my eyes.....and I remember the good years you were in Osceola.
Randy Gibson
October 23, 2008
I will always cherish the impact that "Bob" had in my life. I remember his stories about the history of Nebraska and also how they related spiritually to our culture. I also remember his kind, gentle spirit.
Stephan and Patricia Davis
October 23, 2008
What a wonderful gift Dr. Manley gave the state of Nebraska. He shared his love of its history with thousands, leaving them wanting to learn more. He will be missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family.
C May
October 23, 2008
Dear Family,
As another transplanted Nebraskan from Wisconsin, I have grown to love this state. Meeting Dr. Manely many years ago awoke my interest in the state and its heritage. What a privilege it was to watch him reinact Nebraska history and deliver his messages with his guitar and through his beautiful voice. Our state is blessed to have his rendition of "Beautiful Nebraska" and for the difference he has made through his love of the state and its people. May you find comfort in knowing that his spirit will live on through all the lives that he touched.
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