Jeff Manser

Jeffery Allen Manser, age 56, of Mercer, Missouri, passed away on Friday, May 30, 2025, at Saint Luke’s Hospice House in Kansas City, Missouri.

Jeff was born on February 24, 1969, at Knoxville Hospital to Eldon and Betty (Simmons) Manser. He attended school in Lovilia and Albia, Iowa. He spent some time living in Knoxville, Iowa, and worked as a welder at Vermeer Corporation before relocating to Missouri, where he resided for the past 16 years.

Jeff loved welding and could talk about it with anyone who would listen! He also enjoyed hunting, fishing, thrift shopping at the Amish stores, and spending time with the loves of his life—his dogs Rocco, Rosey, and Blue Bell. Jeff was a jokester who could make anyone laugh. It was never out of the ordinary to wake up to a fresh pot of coffee and Jeff sitting in your living room ready to chat.

Jeff is survived by his life partner of 26 years, Kristina Bates; three stepchildren, Amber (Adam) Staton, Nick (Emily) Bates, and Kristan (Ryan) Brobston; and grandchildren Anderson, Aaren, Avery, Nolan, Myah, Kinsley, Azien, Odin, and Elea. He is also survived by his father- and mother-in-law, Charles and Ellen Ball; sister, Maggie Craycraft; brother, Harold (Brandi) Manser; and sister-in-law, Bev Manser. Jeff will be missed by many nieces and nephews: Justin (Misty) Craycraft, Justin (Jessica) Manser, Chantel Manser, Michelle Manser, Lindsey “Little Lizard” Manser, Kylie Manser, Brayden Manser, Amy Hollier, Cathy Manser, and Rebecca Manser, as well as many great-nieces and great-nephews.

Jeff was preceded in death by his mother, Betty (Simmons) Manser; brother, James (Jim) Manser; nephews, Chad Lee and Jeremy Craycraft; and niece, Elizabeth Manser.

Per Jeff’s wishes, there will be no funeral services. His remains will be cremated. A Celebration of Life will be held on June 21, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the Community Building in Lovilia, Iowa. The family would love for you to stop in, eat, visit, and share stories of Jeff with us.