Manuel "Mannie" J. Baraban, 94, passed away August 30th, 2022 surrounded by his loved ones while "Send in the Clowns" played softly in the background--a happy accident for the man who loved clowns, carpentry, classic and antique cars, and most of all, his family. Born April 30, 1928 to parents Solomon and Dora Baraban, Mannie lived in Kansas City, Missouri with sister Sylvia (Zucker) until graduating from Southwest High School in 1946. Shortly thereafter, he met the future love of his life on the steps of the local Jewish Community Center, a true "love-at-first-sight" moment, proclaiming to his friends, "I'm going to marry that girl!" That girl, of course, was Lois Natalie Katz, and marry her he did--first during a romantic elopement on July 12, 1950 in Harrison, Arkansas and then again on September 24th of that same year, joined by friends and loved ones. A son, Steven David Baraban, followed in December of 1951 and a second son, Paul Martin Baraban, was born in April of 1957.
From his first job working in his Father's clothing store on Prospect Avenue to his final job as a Bail Bondsman in Olathe, Kansas, Mannie had a work ethic like none other. His motto, "take care of business," was evident in everything he did as he regularly worked in his office until 90 years old and kept his business running until just 15 days before his death. His motivation behind that work ethic was undoubtedly a profound love for his family and employees, and an absolute dedication to supporting them when needed. He believed in doing charity to his family first and sheltering his loved ones as best he could from life's hardships. He was also a master, no-nonsense negotiator and quite literally helped his entire immediate family buy their first (and sometimes second, third and fourth) car. "Give them the low, low," he would say with a straight face and he was never afraid to up and walk away. "Don't worry," he'd say to his family member with a wink..."they'll call tomorrow."
Mannie is survived by his loved ones, including wife Lois; sister Sylvia; sons Steve and Paul; daughters-in-law, Leanne and Lili; grandchildren: Melissa, Brian, Amir, Iris, Paige and Cameron (and spouses/significants); as well as 6 great-grandchildren: Anastasia, Emmaleen, Aidan, Penelope, Billie and Maisie. He's also survived by his cousin and brother-in-law Marvin Denton; sister-in-law, Phyllis Denton; nieces Sheila and Sharon; and close members of his work family, Wess Campbell, Chuck Young, Clarence "Bum" Grayson and David Chic. He was preceded in death by his parents and grandson, Eiran Abramof.
Mannie will always be remembered in the hearts of those who knew him. Rest in peace and love until we meet again.
A graveside service for Manuel will be held Thursday, September 8, 2022 from 3:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Mount Moriah Cemetery South, 10507 Holmes Road, Kansas City, Missouri 64131.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.mtmoriah.net for the Baraban family.
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