William D. Mankey

1929 - 2016

William D. Mankey

BUCYRUS: William Duane Mankey, 87, of Bucyrus died Tuesday, April 12, 2016 at Altercare of Bucyrus.

He was born February 24, 1929 in South Zanesville, Ohio to the late William A. "W.A." and Libby L. (Taylor) Mankey. William was also preceded in death by his stepmother, Mary (Blaney) Frances Mankey, whom his dad married following the death of Libby.

Bill spent much of his life in Bucyrus where he helped around the family farm. He was a 1948 graduate of Holmes Liberty High School and on September 24, 1950 he married Barbara J. TenEyck who survives. Bill loved his family and he believed strongly in providing for them. So in addition to farming, he worked for 25 years at Swan Rubber, but what he will be remembered and respected for most was the care he provided for the handicapped individuals in Crawford County as he owned, operated and drove buses for Fairway Waycraft for 22 years. To Bill, it wasn't just driving bus; he was able to forge a relationship with every person he transported to and from their daily activities.

Bill became a born-again Christian as a teenager and instilled his Christian values in his children and grandchildren. He was an active member of Calvary Baptist Church where he constantly refueled himself with Christ. Bill's life was Christ, work, family and, once he retired, he was sure to make time for his grandchildren.

In addition to Barbara, his wife of 65 years, Bill is survived by three children, Beverly (Randall) McGinnis of Bucyrus, Janenne (Phillip) Roar of Ashland, and William D. (Vicky) Mankey, Jr. of Bucyrus; five grandchildren, Daren (Ashlie) Jones, Julie (Eric) Grey, Kayla Mankey, Jessica Mankey, and Taylor Mankey; and five great grandchildren, John, Carson, Marissa, Jace, and Harper.

He was preceded in death by four siblings, Gerald and Rufus Mankey, Catherine Montgomery, and Eloise (Roger) McCracken.

Friends may call from 5-8 p.m. Thursday, April 14 at Wise Funeral Service where his funeral will be held at 11:00 a.m. Friday with Pastor Ken Lance officiating. His family will receive friends one hour prior to his funeral service and burial will be in Salem Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be given to Calvary Baptist Church or to Baptist Mid-Missions through the funeral home. Memories are encouraged on his tribute page at www.wisefuneral.com.