Robert Eugene Manning

Robert Eugene Manning (Bob), 88, born August 3rd, 1937, passed away peacefully July 12th, 2026, surrounded by family members in Indianapolis, IN.

Bob was born in Terre Haute, IN to the late Dwight & Virginia (Field) Manning.

At home, he was a loving father to seven children, a doting grandfather of nine grandchildren and a loving husband to his childhood sweetheart and wife Jo Ann (Mardis) Manning of nearly 60 years (who preceded him in death). Bob was affectionately known by his family as “Blue Daddy”.

Additionally, Bob was preceded in death by daughter, Barbara Manning of Terre Haute, IN, son, Matthew Manning of Henderson, KY and son, Steven (Lou Ann) Manning of Greenwood, IN.

He is survived by his sister, Sally Manning of Terre Haute, IN, son, Mark Manning of Indianapolis IN, daughter, Laura (Greg) Franklin of Greenwood, IN, son, Michael (Donna) Manning of Indianapolis, IN, and daughter, Cynthia Manning Ketchum of Indianapolis, IN.

Collegiately, Bob excelled at sports and was a multi-year letterman in both Baseball & Football.

Bob participated in ROTC during his college years and proudly served in the United States Army Corps of Engineers, attaining the rank of Captain.

Bob graduated from Rose Polytechnic Institute (now Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology) with a degree in Engineering. He went on to enjoy a distinguished career overseeing the construction of iconic facilities throughout the Midwest and Southeast. A dedicated civil engineer, Bob was known for his technical expertise, leadership, and unwavering integrity. He held numerous leadership positions with U.S. Steel, Anaconda, Geuple DeMars, and Adams-Robinson, and later served as a trusted consultant to several prominent organizations.

Bob took great pride in the many projects he managed and helped bring to life throughout his career. Among the accomplishments he cherished most were his contributions to the Indianapolis Zoo, Sony, USA Funds, Purolator Courier, and Methodist Professional Services, as well as numerous wastewater treatment facilities across the Midwest and Southeast. These projects reflected not only his engineering expertise and leadership but also his commitment to building lasting assets that served communities and businesses for generations.

Bob and JoAnn were self-described "wanderers" who shared a love of adventure, good food, and time spent together on the open road (preferably in a convertible). It was not uncommon for them to drive several hours to enjoy a favorite restaurant, special meal, dancing or live show. True to their adventurous spirit, they rarely returned home the same way they came, always eager to discover new roads and hidden treasures along the way (parking lots that we’ve known and loved). Together, they traveled extensively throughout the United States, with a particular fondness for the Southwest, where destinations such as the Grand Canyon, Sedona, Phoenix, Palm Springs, Tucson, and many National Parks across the nation that held a special place in their hearts.

Bob supported many charities (St Jude, Wheeler Mission, Salvation Army, Shriners Hospital, Humane Society and ASPCA). In lieu of flowers please make memorial contributions to the charity of your choice.