Ralph Eugene “Gene” Manka, 86, of Gering, passed away Wednesday, April 21, 2021, at Regional West Medical Center in Scottsbluff with his family by his side. His funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Monday, April 26, 2021, at Bridgman Funeral Home in Scottsbluff with Pastor Dale Brown officiating. Viewing will be held one hour prior to the service, starting at 10:00 a.m., at the funeral home. Interment will follow in the Fairview Cemetery in Scottsbluff. Memorials may be made to Salem Congregational Church in Scottsbluff. Online condolences may be left by visiting Gene’s memorial page at www.bridgmanfuneralhome.com.
Gene was born August 17, 1934, at Phillips, Nebraska to Ralph and Ruth (Roberts) Manka. He graduated from the Scottsbluff High School. Gene married Geraldine Hilzer on June 6, 1952, in Scottsbluff. To this union two children were born, Robert and Kathie Jo. They were married for 68 years. He worked most of his career at Great Western Sugar and retired from there. He was a member of Salem Congregational Church in Scottsbluff and was a longtime member of the Eagles.
Gene is survived by his loving wife, Geri; his son, Rob (Cheryl) Manka of North Platte; his grandchildren, Rob Jr. (Stephanie) Manka of North Platte, and Jaimie Sue Manka of North Platte; great-grandchildren, Dara, Bailey, Trevor and Olivia Manka.
Gene was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Kathie Jo Manka; and sister-in-law, Patricia Manka.
Gene was grateful to his neighbors for the many years of support that allowed him to continue to live at home.
