Wesley Mankee

Wes was born on March 2, 1935 in Ishpeming, Michigan and grew up in the North Lake location. He was the fourth child of eight of Thomas and Rose (Murray) Mankee.

With Kathy, the woman who held his heart, they raised three children, Jim (Diane), Deb (Max), and Diane aka Annie. He was proud of and enjoyed his grandchildren: Kevin, Ciara, Breann (Billy), Nicole, Cody (Murray), Jessie (James), Shane (Ali) and Christopher. He was fortunate to meet and spend time with his great-grandchildren: Kiara, Jayden, Jimmy, Ava, Ayla, Ady, Carter, Everly, Quinn, Amaija, Willow and Grace.

Wes began working at the A&P grocery store in the Produce Department, after leaving high school, and ended with managing his own A&P store. He was dedicated to his career and won the regional competition for best store/sales. The win gave him and Kathy a trip to the Bahamas.

A true and robust outdoorsman, Wes enjoyed hunting, fishing, ice fishing, four-wheeling and going to camp. A master gardener, he grew the best strawberries and tomatoes, a source of pride and joy. While recovering from an accident, he returned to a favorite childhood pastime and began painting. He enjoyed working with oils, pastels and watercolors. His paintings are in the homes of family and friends throughout the country. Many of his paintings reflect the beauty of the Upper Peninsula. He often said there isn’t a better place in the world than the U.P. Wes could spin a tale and loved to talk about the ‘old times’ with family and friends, making sure everyone had a good laugh. Recent weekly calls to his sister, Marge, and brother, Ray, always ended with ‘take care of yourself’– they had gotten very close over the years.

Wes lived a full life and left this world saying he loved us all. In keeping with his wishes, there will not be a formal funeral service. The family will get together in the near future to celebrate his life.

Fassbender Swanson Hansen Funeral and Cremation Services is assisting Wes’ family where memories and condolences may be shared at fassbenderswansonhansen.com