Hopewell News

Michael Anthony Manieri Jr.
Michael Anthony Manieri Jr., passed away Sept. 11, 2009 after a brief but courageous battle with cancer. Born in Hopewell March 26, 1934, he is survived by his loving wife, Betty (Malgarini) Manieri celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary Feb. 20, 2009; sister, Carol, husband, P.C. Yerby; nephew, Wayne, wife, Mary, and son Logan; niece, Mary, husband Jim, and son Brad Mismas; and nephew, Phillip, wife Debbie, and children, Amanda, Phillip Yerby Jr.; all of Virginia. His parents, Mary and Michael Manieri, Sr., preceded him in death. Although never blessed with their own children, he and Betty also cherished her four generations of nieces and nephews in Washington, California, Georgia, Nevada, WestVirginia, and Alaska – too many to name.
A veteran of the US Army, he proudly served his country from 1956 to 1962 where fate intervened and this handsome soldier met a shy girl at the popular dance spot the Spanish Castle between Seattle and Tacoma. After marrying and residing in the Greenlake area for many years, they moved to Sandy Point, to a picturesque condo on the Georgia Straights for 20 years. In 2009 they moved to the city of Ferndale where they enjoyed friendly neighbors, merchants, and the small town atmosphere.
After completing the service, Mike had the opportunity to become a painter, completing a three year apprenticeship to become a journeyman in Painters Union Local 300. The last 15 years he was secretary/treasurer of Local 300, retiring in 1996. With his likeable and witty personality, he was also a popular teacher at North Seattle Community College for 15 years, competently balancing his job and his love to teach.
A man of few words, you never knew what he was thinking – whether he was fishing off the dock at Sandy Point or across the table in a game of cards. He was an avid golfer and wishful fisherman. Unfortunately, he only had one memorable catch.
Mike will be remembered for his smile, his humor, and his southern boy charm. He will be loved because he was one-of-a-kind.
A memorial service will be held at Moles Family Funeral Home, 5700 Northwest Drive, Ferndale, Wash., on Saturday, Sept. 19, 2009, at noon. You may share thoughts and memories of Mike in the online guestbook at www.molesfuneralhomes.com. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in Michael’s name to the Ferndale Food Bank or your favorite charity.