James Willard Mann

09/10/1947 - 09/10/2025

James Willard Mann, 78, of Manchester, passed away Wednesday, September 10, 2025, at University of Michigan Hospital. Jim's family and friends will gather Thursday, September 18, 2025 from 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm and 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm at Eineder Funeral Homes – Manchester Chapel. His funeral service will be held Friday, September 19, 2025 at 11:00 am following visitation from 10:00 am – 11:00 am at Emanuel United Church of Christ, 324 W. Main St., Manchester. Rev. Dr. Gene Blair will officiate.
Jim was born September 10, 1947, in Ann Arbor, MI, to Willard and Dorothy (Steeb) Mann. A 1965 graduate of Manchester High School, he attended Ferris State University and went on to own and operate Mann Real Estate for more than 50 years. A lifelong resident and go-to for all-things-Manchester, Jim carried on the Mann family's proud legacy as a community servant and leader.
Jim especially loved his home and land on the River Raisin, where for more than five decades his close-knit family of cousins held their annual Mann Family Reunions. The property became his favorite gathering place, welcoming family and friends to feed the fish, swim, jump from the diving board and raft, kayak, and explore the trails. Many have been fortunate to make lasting memories on the land Jim cared for so deeply. Above all, Jim loved spending time with his wife, family, and friends and was always willing to lend a helping hand.
He is survived by his loving wife of 21 years, Monica; children, Adam (Erika) Knapp, Geoff (Angela) Brooks, Jessica Brooks (Matt) Dulin, and Joe (Anne) Brooks; his brother, Ron Mann; his sister, Kathy (Mann) Groves; his dear friend, Mary Knapp; and his grandchildren, Adalynn & Kennedy Knapp, Brayia & Alexis Brooks, Raegan Dulin, and Reese & Maxwell Brooks. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Bill Mann.
Jim was a man of service to the Manchester Community. He served as Chairman and Treasurer of the River Raisin Watershed Council, on the Michigan DNR Advisory Board for Areas of Concern, and on the Manchester Village Council. He was Chairman of the Manchester Fair Parade, Supplies Committee Chair for the Manchester Chicken Broil, and a proud member of the Manchester Fire Department for 22 years. He was also active in the Manchester Civic Club, Manchester Optimist Club, Manchester Jaycees, and the Manchester Men's Club. His contributions were recognized with the Claire Reck Achievement Award and the River Raisin Honors Award, as well as the honor of serving as Manchester Fair Parade Grand Marshal.
Jim will be remembered as a good man who loved his family, his land, and his community.
Memorial contributions are suggested to the Dutchman Firefighters Association. Please leave a message of comfort for Jim's family or sign his guestbook at www.EinederFuneralHomes.com.