Aug. 22, 1941 – Jan. 28, 2014

Ronald (commonly known as Ronnie) was a Vietnam Veteran, Beloved Father, and grandfather. Ronnie passed away Tuesday, Jan. 28, 2014, after a battle with pneumonia.

Ronnie spent the last two years of his life in Tennessee near his oldest daughter, Crystal Omalley and her family.

Ronnie will be remembered for his caring personality, sense of humor and sincere consideration for others. Ronnie always had a story to tell or a remembrance of substance to share. Ronnie was often considered the life of the party and could transmit a smile with his charismatic nature.

Ronnie lived a full and adventurous life. He enlisted in the United States Marine Corp in 1958 and continued his career in the Marines until retiring as a Staff Sgt. in 1983.

After retiring from the Marines, Ronnie returned home to Michiana where he proceeded to raise his two daughters.

Ronnie is survived by two loving daughters, Crystal O’Malley (husband Michael) and Erica Ward; grandchildren, Brittnay, Jordan, Kianna, Jazmyne, Malik, Tylah, Kassie, Liam; a great-grandchild, Braydon; a brother, Kris Manley of Muskegon, Mich. and two sisters: Marian (Randy) Frailey and Kim (Dean) Bassett, both of Indiana.

Ronnie was preceded in death by his parents, Roy and Janet Manley, and grandmother, Mildred Manley.

Ronnie will be remembered by the many lives he touched throughout his life’s journey.

Those who knew and loved Ronnie will miss him dearly, but his unique, deep voice and optimistic words of wisdom will remain in their hearts forever.

Cremation Services will be conducted through Music City Mortuary in Nashville, Tenn.

A memorial service to celebrate the life of Staff Sergeant Ronald Ward-Manley will be scheduled with the VFW in Michiana for the spring/summer of 2014.

An additional announcement will be publicized at a later date.

Condolences may be sent to the family of Ron Ward-Manley, 7970 N 600 W, Shipshewana, Ind. 46565.