Ellen Klaire Manick

Ellen Klaire Manick, a beloved mother, grandmother, and cherished friend, peacefully passed away on Wednesday, January 8, 2025, at Munson Hospital in Traverse City, MI, at the age of 79. She was born on June 12, 1945, in Flint, MI to Francis and Julia (Vinson) Miller. Ellen lived in Lake City, MI for the past 6 years, formerly of West Branch, MI.

On August 8, 1964, she married Dennis Manick. They shared 45 wonderful years of marriage.

Ellen was a proud graduate of Beecher High School, having completed her studies in 1963, and her commitment to lifelong learning continued to inspire those around her. She forged a career at Carman Ainsworth Head Start from 1979 to 2001, where she continued her passion for education. She filled the world with warmth and kindness throughout her life, touching the hearts of everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. 

Her interests were as delightful as her personality, encompassing a love for collecting teapots, immersing herself in the pages of a good book, and creating magical memories on Disney vacations. Above all, Ellen cherished spending time with her family. The laughter and love shared in those moments were the highlights of her life, and her family remains a testament to the warmth she fostered.

Ellen leaves behind her devoted daughter, Denelle Manick, who resides in Lake City, MI, and her beloved grandchildren Kaylynn, Lola, Marlee, and Kevin Manick of Cadillac, MI, as well as many nieces and nephews. Her legacy continues through them, enriched by the many lessons of love and compassion she imparted.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Dennis Manick; her son, Christopher Manick; her parents, Frenchy and Julia Miller; her parents-in-law, Edward and Anna Manick; her sister, Doris (Doug) Serrels; her brother, David (Sandy) Warren; her brother-in-law, Edward (Pat) Manick Jr.; and her sisters-in-law, Shirley (Chuck) Taylor, Geraldine Manick, and Terry Manick. Each of these individuals held a special place in her heart, and their memories will live on within her family.

A funeral service will be held on Monday, January 13, 2025, at Steuernol & McLaren Funeral Home in West Branch at 1:00 p.m. with visitation starting at 11:00 a.m. She will be buried next to her husband at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery in West Branch. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to ALS Foundation and the American Cancer Society.

Online condolences can be shared at www.steuernolmclaren.com