Melvin Clayton Manning

Mel Manning, longtime owner of the Pine Bowl in Pocatello, rolled his final strike March 8, 2018 at home with his family.

Mel was born November 26, 1934. He was the youngest of the 4 children of Arthur and Ethel Manning. He met his wife, Doris Hardy, while driving the milk tanker to pick up milk on her family's dairy farm in Bear River, Utah. They were married June 22, 1955. They spent 62 years together and had many adventures, misadventures, and amazing stories. Mel was working for 7Up bottling when he received a letter inviting him to join the Army. He was stationed in Fort Monroe, VA from 1957-1959 where he managed the bowling center on base. In 1959, they returned home to Utah and Mel started managing the Rocket Bowl in Brigham City. In 1966, they moved to Pocatello to manage the Pine Bowl. A year after they arrived, they bought it and operated it for 48 years until he retired in 2014. During this time Mel also tried out construction, a western clothing store, and many other small businesses, often to Doris's dismay.

Mel enjoyed so many hobbies. Snowmobiling, golfing, team roping, motorcycling, hunting, waterskiing, NOT fishing, bowling, mowing his lawn just so, growing giant squash, and spending time with his family and friends.

Mel is survived by his wife, Doris, 2 children, Stacie (TJ) Clark and Jason (Mistie) Manning. 4 wonderful grandchildren, Charissa Brammer, Lane Brammer and Naomi Manning, Ainsley (Jordan) Cotter, and one extra special great-grandson Jasper.

Mel made many very dear and longtime friends throughout his life and touched many people he will be missed.

A celebration of Life will be held at 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, March 13, 2018 at Wilks Funeral Home 211 W. Chubbuck Rd.

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family by visiting the "Tribute Wall" tab above.