- Date Of Birth: August 7, 1928
- Date Of Death: June 20, 2010
- State: Idaho
Darwin Wayne Manship, 81, passed away on Sunday, June 20, after a ten-year battle with multiple myeloma. He was born August 7, 1928, in Buhl, Idaho, to John and Idell (McMurdie) Shandrew and was raised by his mother and his step-father, Jesse Manship. Growing up on farms around Gooding, Idaho, Darwin learned the value of hard work, which he exemplified throughout his life. As a diversion from the hard work on the farm he also developed a love for sports, excelling in high school athletics, especially boxing, football, and track.
Shortly after returning from his mission Darwin met Arlene Jones, and after a short courtship they became engaged. They were married in the Salt Lake Temple on June 5, 1952. Over the next eight years Darwin and Arlene were blessed with five children. In 1954 they moved to Boise, which became their home for the remainder of their lives.
In 1963 Darwin determined that he could achieve more in his life if he pursued a higher education degree. As the father of five young children and at the age of 35 he enrolled in college at a time when very few people his age did so. He was awarded a bachelor’s degree from Northwest Nazarene College in 1966.
Throughout Darwin’s life he enjoyed many activities, such as fishing, gardening, traveling, yard work, home improvement, camping, and hiking. These activities were always part of the larger, more important, goal of nurturing his relationships with his God, his family, and his friends.
Despite suffering many setbacks to his health, especially in the ten years since his diagnosis of multiple myeloma, Darwin never complained or felt bitter; instead, he was cheerful and optimistic throughout his trials. He felt so fortunate that he was able to continue enjoying his family and so many other activities that brought joy into his life. He was always thankful that the Lord had blessed him with a truly wonderful and long life.
Darwin is survived by his wife, Arlene; and children, Lori (Verne) May of Vancouver, WA, Jeff (Robbin) Manship of Idaho Falls, Kurt (Lelana) Manship of Brigham City, UT, and Brian (Kay) Manship of Boise. He was preceded in death in 2004 by his daughter, LuJean (Alan) Myers of New Plymouth, ID. He is also survived by 19 grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren; and his sister, Gloria (Roy) Shoup of Gooding.
