Kenneth James Mannia, 70, of Phoenix, Arizona, formerly of La Porte, Indiana, passed away at home on April 25, 2022, following a lengthy illness.

 

Ken was born June 6, 1951, in La Porte, Indiana to the late William and Margaret (Graczyk) Mannia. 

 

Ken attended La Porte High School and worked for the La Porte County Fire Department.  He was a United States Navy Veteran based out of Charleston, South Carolina, serving four years during the Vietnam War.  He moved to Phoenix, Arizona in 1984 to be near his parents

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Ken was a talented artist.  His work is seen in many businesses, advertisements and several school gymnasium floors and walls.  He painted for the love of the art and sold many of his works at local festivals.  He studied various art media and gifted his family with several of his “Masterpieces”.  He enjoyed fishing, playing golf, a competitive game of pool and cooking, while sipping on a rum and coke.

 

Ken is survived by his brother, William (Mindy) Mannia of Delaware City, Delaware; four sisters, Anne (Danny) Schoof of Lake Wales, Florida, Valerie Jean Richardson of La Porte, Indiana, Nancy (Robin) Christ of La Porte, Indiana and Patricia Diane Smudde of Charleston, South Carolina; as well as several nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Paul Michael Mannia.

 

A Celebration of Life for family and friends will be held from 4:00-8:00 p.m. on Saturday, July 9, 2022 at the La Porte Moose Lodge, 925 Boyd Blvd., La Porte, Indiana.  A private graveside service will be held at a later date to honor his wishes to be placed near his parents and brother.  Arrangements have been entrusted to Frank L. Keszei Funeral Home, Essling Chapel, La Porte, Indiana.

 

To light a virtual candle, share a story of Ken’s life or leave a message of comfort for the family, please visit www.EsslingFuneralHome.com.