Jeff Travis Manes, 72 of Rockham, SD died on Tuesday, April 13, 2021 at his home in Rockham after a short courageous battle with cancer.  Per his request, he will be cremated and no formal services will be held. Arrangements have been entrusted to Hyke Funeral Home in Redfield.  (www.hykefuneralhome.com)

Jeff was born on August 17, 1948 in Santa Cruz, CA to Charles H. Manes and Rovanna L. (Wheeler) Manes.

He married his wife of 42 years, Charlene (Register) Manes on December 26, 1978 in Donaldsonville, Georgia.  To this union three children were born, Chad, Preston and Shavonne.

Jeff served in the US Navy from December 27, 1965 to November 14, 1968 aboard the aircraft carrier USS Constellation as an aircraft mechanic.  While in the Navy he was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal and the Navy Unit Commendation.

After being discharged from the Navy he worked various jobs.  The family moved to South Dakota where he went to work as a truckdriver and heavy equipment operator for Dhame Construction.  He retired in 2011.

Jeff enjoyed barbequing and working in the yard in the summertime.  He was a very big Dale Earnhardt fan.  He absolutely loved to tease his wife and loved his grandchildren.

He was proceeded in death by his dad Charles H. Manes, his mother Rovanna L. (Wheeler) Manes, his grandparents Monroe Wheeler, Addie (Elrod) Wheeler, P.H. Manes, and Lenora (Turner) Manes all of California.

Jeff is survived by his wife Charlene; his son Chad (Samantha) Manes and their children; Cody, Conner, Beau, Braxton and Grayson; his son Preston and special friend Noela; his daughter Shavonne (Andy) and children Kyle, Kade, Kole and Gracie (Golden Girl).  Also surviving is a very special uncle George Wheeler and his wife Donna.