Richard “Dick” Lavern McManus
Richard “Dick” Lavern McManus of Charlotte, a wonderful guy that always made sure his family was taken care of, died October 3, 2023, at the age of 95. Born in Charlotte, MI to Vern and Blanche (King) McManus on September 22, 1928, Dick grew up learning about hard work, the importance of family, and a love of learning how to fix things and tinker with all kinds of gadgets to learn how they worked. A music lover, Dick enjoyed playing the guitar, especially old “Real Country” bluegrass style music, which he often played at area care homes in his winter home in Rockport, TX. Deer hunting was something Dick enjoyed, but only if he could get his trophy within 15 minutes. Fishing was more his style, enjoying any opportunity where he could be on the water at Guernsey Lake.
Working at Automatic Screw in Charlotte for many years, Dick was there until the age of 62 alongside Curley Cooper. This probably fostered his interest as a tinkerer, because he was always working on something and interested in gadgets and how they worked. He also enjoyed puzzles, as well as collecting rocks and seashells, and his weekly trips to McDonald’s in Lansing. With a love for travel, he enjoyed winters in Texas after his retirement, and in his 80’s he rode a bicycle alongside his grandson in “One Pedal Across Michigan.”
Dick is survived by his daughter-in-law, Darlene McManus; grandchildren, Charles and Julius McManus; five great-grandchildren, Wesley, Casey-Jo, Keegan, Brendan, and Collin; and two great great-grandchildren, Kayden and Atlas; and companion, Anita Gordon. He was predeceased by his wife, Ruth; son, James Charles McManus; brother, Harley Bennett McManus, and sister, Alta Christensen.
Friends are encouraged to support Dick’s family by attending services or sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. All services are on Tuesday, October 10, 2023, at Pray Funeral Home with visitation from 10:00 a.m. to 12 noon, funeral services at 12 noon, and a graveside service at 1:00 p.m. at Maple Hill Cemetery. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.