Naomi R. Manbeck

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Naomi R. Manbeck, age 94, of Rossville, Kansas, who departed this world on Jan. 25, 2025 while surrounded by loved ones.

Born on March 26, 1930 on a farm north of Waterville, Kansas to Nels and Delia Hanson, Naomi was the youngest in the family among six brothers. She was preceded in death by her parents – Nels and Delia, her husband, Keith Manbeck, along with all six of her siblings.

Naomi graduated from Waterville High School in 1947 before proceeding into her professional career that included roles at Eddy & Eddy Abstract Co., in Marysville, Guarantee Abstract & Title Co., in Kansas City and Columbia Title & Trust Co. in Topeka.

She married her husband of 53 years – Keith – on Sept. 13, 1953, in Waterville. Family was her top priority. She was a dedicated wife, mother, grandmother and great grandmother, highlighted by her son, Mike Manbeck, along with his wife, Cathy.

She took immense joy and pride in being a grandmother and great grandmother. The value of grandparents was instilled in her grandchildren – Shane and Cole – through the countless experiences they enjoyed with her and Keith. They were a staple at Shane and Cole’s sporting events growing up, rarely missing any of their games. They went as far as to purchase a minivan so the entire family could travel together to their high school games. They were a second home for their grandkids, who spent nearly every morning and afternoon before and after elementary school at their house. There was nothing better than spending a night or weekend at their house. They knew they’d be spoiled.

They frequently took Shane and Cole to breakfast at the Swirly Top in Rossville – where they’d gather with Keith and Naomi’s friends – and to the Sunday breakfast buffet at Golden Corral in Topeka. Thanksgivings as a family were spent at Keith and Naomi’s house; they were present every Christmas Day as well as other holidays. They even opened their doors to Shane and Cole’s friends, who were frequent visitors to their house.

Those same wonderful experiences carried on to Naomi’s six great grandchildren. She would light up with happiness whenever she saw them and would beam with pride when talking to others about them.

In her later years, Naomi enjoyed occasional trips to the casino with Keith. When of age, Cole began to accompany Naomi on these trips, which he greatly enjoyed.

Naomi is survived by her son, Mike and his wife Cathy, Rossville; two grandsons, Shane (Becky), Rossville and Cole (Vanessa), Olathe, as well as her six great grandchildren.

A visitation will be held at the Rossville Methodist Church, 414 Pearl St. in Rossville on Thursday, Jan. 30 beginning at 10 a.m. followed by the funeral service at 11 a.m. that same day. Burial will follow in Rossville Cemetery. 

Memorial contributions in Naomi's memory may be given to the Topeka Rescue Mission and Helping Hands Humane Society.