Thelma Manns, 86, of rural Rensselaer, passed away at her home early Thursday morning, Jan. 8, 2015 surrounded by her family. She was born in Rensselaer on Oct. 26, 1928, the daughter of the late Ted and Curtis (Holbrook) Risner. She was a lifelong area resident.

On Aug. 11, 1945, in Rensselaer, Thelma married her husband of 69 years, Bill Manns. She was a beautician and owned and operated the 3 Sisters Beauty Salon in Hammond. She also worked for several years at the Continental Diamond plant in Valparaiso. Thelma attended the Goodway Baptist Church, and she enjoyed eating peppermints, making floral arrangements and spending time with her family.

Thelma is survived by her loving family: husband Bill Manns of Rensselaer; daughter Connie Jo (Denny) Raska of Rensselaer; son William T. (Pam) Manns of Rensselaer; five grandchildren: Ted K. Oliver of Miami, FL, Scott (Erica) Manns, Derick (Amanda) Manns, Carla (Heath) Arndt, all of Rensselaer, and Misty (Jerri) Cady of West Des Moines, IA; twelve great grandchildren; and one great-great grandchild. She was preceded in death by: her parents and two sisters, Irene and Katherine.

Friends may call on Sunday, Jan. 11, 2015 from 3-7 p.m. at Steinke Funeral Home of Rensselaer. Funeral services will be Monday, Jan. 12, 2015 at 10:30 a.m. at Steinke Funeral Home of Rensselaer with Pastor James Rowe officiating. Interment will follow at Memory Gardens Cemetery. Share memories and condolences online at www.SteinkeFuneralHome.com.

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