David Mark Maniaci, 52, passed from this life on Thursday, April 20, 2006, at St. Francis Hospital, surrounded by his family. For nearly 50 years, he lived at the family home at 1224 Wisconsin Avenue, in Gladstone. For the past nine months, he resided at the Christian Park Health Care Center in Escanaba.
Mark was born April 14, 1954 in Indianapolis, Indiana, the son of Dr. George and Lou Maniaci. He graduated from J.F. Kennedy Special Education School and participated in Special Olympics, winning medals in swimming, wrestling and basketball. He was employed by Lake State industries in Escanaba. He also delivered the Action Shopper for many years. His favorite activities included shooting pool at Wally
Anonymous
Lou & Family,
Gee I am sorry I just found about Mark’s death by writing a tribute to my aunt who just died recently also.
I am the siter of “Duane Tousignant” so I knew Mark for many years. He always remembered my name and always had a smile on his face and a hug for everyone. We can take a lot from knowing Mark, kindness and compassion were two of Mark’s greatest traits.
I watched him play basketball in the Special Olympics at the tournaments they had in Escanaba. All of the kids were so nice to you and had a hug and a smile for you. These kids can be people to look up to because they have compassion that many of us lack!
My consolences to the whole family of Mark and my sincere regret to your loss.
Pamela (Tousignant) Mathias and children Nicholas and Jennifer Mathias
New Berlin, WI
Mark was my oldest and dearest friend. We were two little boys growing up in the same neighborhood and had a lot of fun together over the years. We’re only here for such a short time and I think the purpose of our stay is to make a difference and Mark did that. There is no doubt that Mark made me a better person and it was an honor to have him for a friend!! My favorite Mark story is that he and my wife Bonnie had the same birthday and they both loved me so there was always a “special” bond between them. Well, when we were visiting my Mom one summer, Mark came up to Bonnie and patted her stomach and said “you’re going to have a baby”. Bon said, “I don’t think so Mark”. Well a few weeks later we found out Mark was right. A few years later, Mark came up to Bonnie and did it again. This time Bonnie was sure “No Way Mark!!!” Well again a few weeks later to our astonishment baby #2 was discovered!!. From then on, Bonnie would always hid when Mark was around.
Tom Westerback
Esko, MN
Dear Lou and family,
I have read through this list of memories with tears streaming down my face — it says so much about Gladstone, the Maniaci family, and of course, Mark. I grew up in Gladstone in the 60s and 70s, and have known Mark all of my life. I remember the crush he had on my sister Ruthann, playing tag at the football field, him directing our pep band… him tickling my feet as I sat on the lifeguard stand, dancing with him at weddings, sitting on a barstool chatting with him at Wally’s… his wonderful bear hugs. I can even remember with shame, a time or two when I was less than kind (dismissive) to him — but he always forgave and forgot. He taught us “Gladstonians” so much about how to live a good life. My fondest memory is how concerned about me he was after I was divorced several years ago. Every time I saw him for a couple of years afterward, he’d grab my left hand and look for a new ring. When he didn’t see one he’d look sad and hug me. Then one day he asked me to marry him… but we decided we’d be better off as friends (smile).
My trips back home will never be the same without Mark — but I can feel the warmth of his smile from above.
Mary Martin
Haslett, MI
Lou, So sorry to hear of Mark’s passing. Mark was such a dear person. We remember meeting him for the first time at the ice skating rink in Gladstone over 35 years ago when we first moved to the area. Gladstone won’t be the same without him.
Bill and Pat Spreen
Rapid River, MI
I was very sorry to hear about Mark’s passing. He was a great person who gave a lot of himself to so many people. I remember once my Dad found him asleep on our couch, having helped himself to a cake my mother had made. I also remember him accompanying me to school many times and waiting there afterward for his brothers. I’m sure he will be missed by many, many people who loved him. He was blessed in many ways.
Dennis Anderson
Minneapolis, MN
You were a part of “our neighborhood gang” in the 70’s Mark! You visit us at school frequently. We loved you like a brother; a lot of us moved on and away after HS, and every time we’d return to visit, WE WOULD LOOK FOR YOU! What’s great is, you were always there, if not “there” then at Walleys! Fondest memories are of you coming outside many a summer evening wearing that huge black dracula cape and Dracula TEETH! You were always “it” with a smile on your face, BWAHAHAHA you would chase us kids for hours! We all had a blast, Thanks for the memories Mark. Goodness, it seems like yesterday you just turned 18! Love ya and will miss you.
Beth (Britton) Nelson
Rapid River, MI
Maria and family…You have my deepest sympathy and my thoughts are with you and your family.
Sue Raredon
Wetmore, MI
Dear Lou and Family,
I was so sorry to hear of Mark’s passing. Mark and I went to school together for many years. Before bus transportation I remember riding to school in your vehicle. At school we had fun times including square dancing and going on field trips. We were in Special Olympics together and I worked at Lakestate with Mark. I liked having Mark for a neighbor and as a good friend. I will miss him.
Diane
With deepest sympathy from all of the Bishops.
Dear Family,
Thanks for sharing Mark with me. I have loved him dearly through all these years that we have been together. It started with seeing him in the community of Gladstone and then we were together in the Delta Schoolcraft ISD Special Ed program, Special Olympics, CHAT, Kiwanis Aktion Club and finally at the nursing home. Mark may be gone but will never be forgotten. He leaves me with many memories of all our time together. The dearest memory is Mark recognizing me amd calling me by name right up to 8 days before his death. His smile and greeting lit up my life many times.
Thanks, Mark from your good friend, Dorothy
Dorothy Kollmann
Rapid River, MI
We just got the news of Mark’s death – even though I had not seen Mark for many years, his voice and smile and big hug came immediately into my mind. So many fond memories of Mark and I feel so lucky to have known him during my years in Gladstone. I am so sorry, deeply sorry, for all of you because I know how very much you loved him. I have you in thoughts and prayers. I know he is smiling down from Heaven – -he had such a wonderful life with such a wonderful family. May you feel God’s loving arms surrounding you at this time of loss. Love to all of you!
Kristen Olson Lahner
Stillwater, MN
Lou, Mark was such a “light” in our little town. We will miss his bright smile and happy greetings. He brought so much joy to Gladstone, and will be sorely missed. God’s blessings to you and your family.
With love and prayers,
Steve and Kathy Dosh
Gladstone, MI
Mark, God bless you, you were the one person I could count on seeing when I came to Gladstone
Rest in peace
Art&Paula Van Damme
Naples, FL
My sister (Berdie Mae AKA Theresa Anderson) wanted to say how she wishes Mark was still alive as he was always funny and liked to tease her. She wants to tell his Mom and his family that she is sorry and she just doesn’t know what else to say. Theresa went to school with Mark years ago at John F. Kennedy school and Lakestate and has known him for many years. He will be missed terribly and our thoughts and prayers go out to the family! Darlene Anderson Jensen
Theresa Anderson
Rapid River MI
My condolences to the Maniaci Family. I haven’t seen Mark for quite a few years, so when I saw his picture in this memorial, I was struck by his resemblence to his Dad. George, Mike, & Mark have always had a special place in my heart. The common thread being their great smiles & sense’s of humor.
Not to mention what a darn fine job “Doc” did on the removal of my appendix!
It makes me smile when I think of their reunion.
Sincerely,
Cheryl (Kalishek) Bernard
DeTour Vlg., MI
Dear Mrs. Maniaci,
Please accept my sincere sympathy on the loss of your son. Mark was a real ray of sunshine to me and a lot of other folks in this town. You could always count on his friendly smile and playful personality. If he had bad days, he never let on. I’m sure God found a very special place for him in heaven.
Lois Corcoran
Gladstone, MI
Maniaci Family,
Sorry for your loss, I mean our loss. Mark will always be remembered. I will especially miss the look on his face when he received his pool trophy at the Gladstone Pool Banquet, talk about pride. When ever I would talk to Mark, I always left a happier person. I was proud to be his friend.
Archie Henderson
Gladstone, MI
I grew up in Gladstone and shared many “Packer” Sundays with Mark, I moved down state about 10 yrs. ago now,but every time I came home for a visit,Mark would get that “smile” on his face when he saw me and run to give me the biggest hug!!He truly made every visit special and I will miss him dearly!!!God bless him and his family left behind. “GO PACK!”
Sue Johnson
Hillman, MI
My wife and I were saddened to hear that Mark passed away. I’ll always remember seeing his smiling face at our basketball games on Wednesday nights. He would always say hi Gunty and give me a big hug. He was my buddy!!
Gary and Becky Lehman
Escanaba, MI
We were saddened to hear of Mark’s passing. He was indeed one of Gladstone’s most loved citizens, we always enjoyed his company when we bumped into him in town. He will be missed.
Brenda and Andy Wiltzius
Kingsford, MI
I remember Mark especially for the years he played the tamborine at the Soo Hill Church. He was so proud of his participation. He will always be remembered by all of us.
Gloria Julien
Gladstone, MI
Lou:
This is Betty Lou Arvey former Betty Johnson from Danforth, my parents where Elmer & Bertha Johnson, I chummed with Lita Young.
You and your family have my deepest sympathy. Mark and Steve visited my parents farm and Mark enjoyed himself. My mother would talk about that. Lou you all will be in my prayers.
God Bless.
Betty Lou Arvey (Johnson)
Grand Rapids, MI
I saw Mark every day, as I, too, work at Lakestate Industries (Office Manager). Mark’s warm smile was contagious … one could not look at him smiling and not smile back. I would hand Mark his paycheck and he would “bow” and say “thank you” or give me a little hug. We will all miss you, dear Mark.
Janet Bussineau
Gladstone, MI
Jo and Lou,
You have been in our thoughts and prayers from your friends in Minnesota. Peace and blessed memories.
Marlys Wiens
Edina, MN
Maniaci Family. Our family wishes you our deepest sympathy in hearing of the passing of your son and brother Mark. It is expecially sad for a mother to lose a child at any age, Mrs Maniaci, again it comes to you. Our prayers are with you at this time, Jeff and Vicki Musselman, friends of Joanna and Steve.
Jeff and Vicki Musselman
Ironwood, MI
To a great neighbor whom I knew all my life. Gladstone will never be the same without you! You never missed the chance to stop and say Hi when my family came home to visit. So long my friend. I will see you in Heaven someday.
Ron Brow Jr.
Marquette, MI
My fondest memory of Mark was when he was a wrestler. He had been coached by a number of Escanaba High School wrestlers, the McNamee brothers, Vance Hiney, and a few others. He travelled with us down state to compete at the state Special Olympics Wrestling Tournament held at Henry Ford High School. Mark was in the heavy-weight division and his first match of the day caught him off-guard because it was held early in the morning after we had travelled a full day to get there. But his coaches set him up for his second match, against an opponent that was quite a few pounds heavier than him. They told Mark it was time to put on his wrestling face and stare down his opponent. Mark did this exceptionally well. He sat on the edge of the mat and focused all his attention on his opponent, who wondered about the look Mark was giving him. The strategy paid off as Mark, when his match came due, lead off with a take down and didn’t let up. Mark’s opponent was done in more by the intense stare down strategy, then by Mark’s ability. But Mark had another wonderful moment, when he got up on the award stand and as the high school cheerleader awarded him his ribbon, he encircled her with a huge, sweaty hug. Go Mark, was cheered from all our wrestlers and coaches.
Leigh Schmidt
Escanaba, MI
Lou and Maria,
Mark was one of the most wonderful people I’ve met. Despite him being so sick last fall, I would still get a little kiss from him. I always enjoyed caring for him, he brightened my day. May Mark rest in peace. He will be greatly missed. Lou, you are one of the most caring, unselfish people I’ve ever met. Maria, you were always by his side. Mark was so lucky to have a family that cared for him so dearly. Anyone who had the pleasure of meeting Mark was truly blessed. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Take care and may you be comforted in your memories of Mark.
Jaylene Brown
Wells, MI
Lou and family, so sorry and shocked to hear about Mark. We have all been very blessed in knowing him and witnesing his great loveable personality.We shared many great moments together over the years. Perhaps some of the greatest were during the Special Olympics,both local and state. His enthusiasm and achievement will always be remembered and his inspiration to his teamates was contagious. Again,very sorry to hear this.Bless you all. Love from our family to yours.
Dick Copeland
Escanaba, MI
Mark, my buddy
I miss not seeing you coming into the Saloon; pizza was only part of you coming to see us…we had a few laughs and you always had a story to share.
Enjoy your peace with God
Gloria Kohnert
Gladstone, MI
Lou, This is Stafford Le Claire, lived at 1103 Wisconsin Ave. Gladstone, MI. [1957 – 1963] Sorry to hear of Marks death, ” May he rest in peace.”
My brother Chris Le Claire, died in 1998.
My wife and I, live in Pittsburgh, PA. Dad died in 1999 and my Mother died in 2002. We [my wife and I] were up to visit my sister, Dianne Le Claire Nielsen, last year. Seen Maria pass bye in her van, when I was visiting Grand Ma Allard in 1982. Thought she would stop to talk but she just waved and passed by. You are in my prayers.
Stafford G. Le Claire [ Fred ]
Pittsburgh, PA
My condolensces to the Maniaci family. I grew up in Gladstone…and seeing Mark around town, at the beach, basketball and football games, in Wally’s…was just a given. He used to come into the high school band room w/ his paper route bag and play the tambourine. Even after I moved from the UP, and would come back to visit, I would still see his familiar, smiling face. He has made an impact and impression on many!! God Bless Mark!! Thanks for all the smiles.
Name: Kerri (Martin) Edwards
Farmington, MN
Lou & Maria,
Words can never express the sorrow we all have with the passing on of a loved one. Mark was a great friend to me from the first time we went to the beach to swim, until the last time he hitched a ride across town with me.
1 Thessalonians 4:13 18 (NIV)
Brothers, we do not want you to be ignorant about those who fall asleep, or to grieve like the rest of men, who have no hope. 14 We believe that Jesus died and rose again and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him. 15 According to the Lord’s own word, we tell you that we who are still alive, who are left till the coming of the Lord, will certainly not precede those who have fallen asleep. 16 For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. 17 After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever. 18 Therefore encourage each other with these words.
Mark has now gone home with the Lord and is singing in the Lord?s Choir. I will miss our debates on politics and his instructions on how to coach the Packers.
May our Lord Jesus Christ give you peace and calm in the passing over of our Son, Brother and Friend. All Mark?s worries are in the past and he is dwelling with the Lord.
Charlie & Sherry Myers
Gladstone, MI
Mrs. Maniaci and Family,
My prayers and thoughts are with you at the passing of your son Mark. I had the pleasure of getting to know Mark as one of his coaches for Special Olympics. I coached Mark from 1979-81 in wrestling. I have many fond memories of my time with Mark- practices, bus trips, and competitions were always more enjoyable because of Marks personality and ability to make me laugh. My time with Mark and the other athletes helped lay the foundation in guiding me later in life as a Special Education Teacher and Coach. I never think of Mark as a person that I coached,I see him as someone who helped me grow to be the person I am today. Thank you Mark.
David McNamee
Duluth, MN
Dear Lou and family,
We want to express our sympathy to you in the passing of Mark. We know he is now out of pain and in a better place. God bless you and comfort you at this time. You have our deepest respect for how well you have managed to care for Mark through these years. You are an inspiration to all of us.
Love,
Carl and Marilyn Olson
Palm Harbor, FL
I was one of Mark’s nurses at Christian Park. Although I didn’t work down his hall, I would often hear him in his room talking when the CENA’s were caring for him and I would pop in to say “hi”. I thought Mark was a joy and he always brought a smile to my face with his innocence and outgoing personality. I’ll miss him.
Tanya Panfil
Escanaba, MI
Mark, dear Mark – my sister, Linda Johnson’s long time love of her life – you touched so many lives. Every time I came back to Gladstone to visit my family and had the pleasure of seeing you around town, your hugs and kisses were as fresh as they were thirty years ago. Thank you for being my sister’s friend…you both have taught so many of us how to love and care for others. And to the the Maniaci Family and to all those who loved Mark, I send my sincerest sympathy for your loss.
Katie Schuld (Johnson)
Hartford, MI
I cannot think of Gladstone without thinking of Mark and how easy it was to see Christ in Mark’s eyes. Mark was always there helping out all the years we build homecoming floats in my garage or stopping you in the street to tell you about something exciting going on his life. There is a very special angel in heaven – he’s the one wearing the Packer hat!
Tim & Diane Heger
Traverse City, MI
Lou – I am sorry to see Mark’s obituary in the Escnaba paper. I always saw Mark as a fine young man. I’m sure that you are very proud of him.
Take care Lou.
Bob Chapman
Marquette, MI
Mrs. Maniaci, Its Dana Farrell (Vranish) from Gladstone, I used to play tennis with you. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. Mark will always hold a special place in my heart, as when I knew him growing up and would see him every summer when I came home. God Bless you and your family at this time. God Bless Mark too.
Dana Farrell (Vranish)
Macomb Mi. formerly Gladstone Mich.
We are sorry for your loss. We remember Mark as being a very special person.
Wayne & Mary Glenn Weaver
Granger, IN
Mark was a long time inspiration to me. I got to know him when he was involved with special Olympics when my son worked with that program. Mark’s personality as well as his desire to improve himself (which he did well)will remain forme, one of lifes great lessons. Because of people like Mark my son became a teacher of the emotionally impaired, and thus Mark’s examplr will live on in others.
G. Dale McNamee
Escanaba, MI
Lou & family
Our deepest sympathy to you and your family….had the privledge of caring for mark in he ER a few times. He was a great person and a beautiful soul…Tamara and Dr Dave Hamacher
Tamara Hamacher
Gladstone, MI
We were so sorry to hear of Mark’s passing. One of the best memories we have of Mark is him dressing all up on a Saturday night in his “Ghostrider” shirt, hat, and buttons and Larry (Brown) would let Mark come up on stage and he would play his harmonica for the crowd. That was the best! Mark was truly a special person and we will miss his hugs and smiles.
Jim and Sandy Gunville
Gladstone, MI
Mark was always in great spirits every time I saw him. He definitely made the most of the challenges presented to him in his life. I occasionally make it home to visit, and every time I did, he would make it a point to go out of his way to give me a hug and a smile. He will always be remembered as a true icon of Gladstone and the surrounding area, and a man who could bring a smile to anyone’s face. He will be missed, but his spirit will never be forgotten.
Matthew M. Papas
Asheville, NC
God Bless you Mark. You were always a happy face in the crowd, an eager friend and a “giver” of yourself. I enjoyed knowing you, sometimes teasing you (maturity comes late to some) but most of all, seeing your love of life.
Rest in Peace.
Hacienda Heights, CA
May God’s loving arms hug you through this very sad time. I remember Mark from when the Amvets Auxiliary would hold dances for the Special Kids many years ago. Prayers for you and your family.
Barbara Nelson
Escanaba, MI
It was always such a pleasure to see Mark deliver the Action Shopper on Sundays, especially when he would wear his Packer uniform and helmet. I don’t think I could find a happier, or more content person in the world. My family also enjoyed it when Mark would take a break from his delivering duties and sit on our porch swing and sing a song or two to himself. We would just sit inside and listen. He was truly a wonderful individual.
Robert Flaminio
Gladstone
You have my deepest condolences. Mark was a very special person who touched many lives. I moved away from Gladstone in 1977, but grew up with Mark, and always made a point to stop and talk to him while home on leave or vacation. The last time I saw him was 2003 and I was amazed because he never seemed to change. Everyone will miss Mark around Gladstone.
Brian Roy Olson
Lexington Park, MD
Gladstone has lost one of the kindest, most warm-hearted men that I have ever known. I have known Mark since I was in kindergarten and used to ride the summer recreation bus to the Gladstone beach. He was at that beach every day, rain or shine! I also enjoyed his (almost)daily visits to see me and have lunch or supper at the Delta Pub. He waited for that Tootsie Pop sucker that he knew he always got after his meal. He is at peace now and reunited with his Dad and brother. Get some well-deserved rest now Lou, you are one fantastic woman and the most selfless Mom I have ever known. Enjoy your memories. I personally feel good knowing that we have one more angel shining down on us and looking over us. And what a beautiful smile he had! You are all in our thoughts and prayers. Love,
Ron and Becki Hess
Gladstone, MI
My warmest thoughts, prayers and love are with you all. I will treasure the fact I was able to see Mark last fall. Although he was in the hospital and very ill, he was able to recognize me and gave me that big Mark smile and hug. That smile and hug will live in my heart forever. I hope the love and support of all those who loved him will bring you comfort. For everyone who knew Mark became his friend and all of his friends became part of his family. There were no strangers in Mark’s life, only friends he hadn’t met yet.
All my love
Cher Cristanelli
Longmont, CO
God Bless you Mark! I know you are at peace and in a better place. We will all miss you, I had known you since the early 70’s and you always were special to me. I know you will still be a die hard packer backer and I, in my life, will never forget all the fun we used to have at Wally’s watching the games and you teasing me [about being a lion fan] 🙂 and me teasing you about your Brett Favre jersey. Take with you the memories and the laughter. May god bless you and all your family. Your memories will live on forever, you were loved by all and all will miss you.
My condolences to the Maniaci family- Mark was a super person and was loved by many, he will be remembered by many.
Jackie [LaFond] Mott
Orange Park, FL
Lou,
Joni & I were sadden by the news of Marks passing. Mark was a special person (as are you for your years of unselfish devotion) in may ways. One could not be around Mark for long without smiling. I know that you will miss him but so will the community, as will we. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Herb & Joni Heger
Kewadin, MI
Lou,
It’s been quite a few years since I’ve seen Mark. I remember his cheerful spirit. I never got to know him well but he made an impression on me. I was sorry to hear he passed away. You’re in our prayers.
Craig Woerpel
Escanaba, MI
Maniaci Family,
Sorry to read of Mark’s passing. I also went to the church in Soo Hill many years ago, one of the memories I have is of Mark standing behind me during a Christmas Program, while we were singing he was patting me on the top of the head & petting my hair. I use to see Mark out & about in Gladstone after I moved there. I am sure you have alot of happy memories to keep close to your hearts. Your family is in my thoughts & prayers
Bonnie (Peterson) Carignan
Escanaba, MI