Harold Lester Manning was born on February 7, 1931 to Willis and pearl Manning on a farm northeast of Max, Nebraska. Harold died on October 09, 2026 at his home surrounded by family.

He attended a country school in Dundy Co until deciding to enlist in the military but was ultimately denied due to health restrictions. He then went to work for various farmers throughout Dundy Co.

On June 4, 1950 he married Vada Teeter. To this union three daughters were born, Rebecca, Vickie and Kathryn. He worked for Youngston Oil Company for ten years. In 1962 he moved the family to Stratton, Nebraska to open Manning Oil.

He and his wife wintered in south Texas for sixteen years and were happily married for 65 years.

Harold was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Vada; two brothers, Gerald and Oscar Manning, brother-in-law, Mike Faulkner; sister-in-law, Lela Fortkamp; son-in-law, Roddy Petersen and his great grandson, Tanner Cruise.

He is survived by his three daughters, Rebecca Petersen, Vickie (Dave) Thornbrugh and Kathryn Thornbrugh; sisters, Daisy Jensen and Lila Faulkner; eight grandchildren, 17 great- grandchildren; and 11 great-great- grandchildren.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. (MT) on Saturday, October 17, 2026 at Benkelman Memorial Chapel, 205 Buffalo Street, Benkelman, NE with viewing one hour prior. Pastor Larry Unruh to officiate. Interment will follow at Benkelman Cemetery in Benkelman, NE.

Memorial contributions may be made to Stratton Fire & EMS