With heavy hearts and gratitude for a life well lived, we note the passing of David “Conlee” Mann; a loving, kind, and devoted husband, father, and papa. Born January 3, 1949 in Chanute, Kansas. He passed away April 19, 2026 in Holland, Michigan following a short, courageous battle with Lewy Body Dementia and Parkinson’s. He was truly the life of the party—a gifted storyteller with a quick wit, generous spirit, and a way of making everyone feel welcomed, valued, and at ease.
He spent his early years on the family ranch in Toronto, Kansas; a town settled by the Mann family nearly a century earlier. His youth was filled with riding horses, learning from his mother as his school teacher, and causing mischief that will long live on in family lore. His family eventually moved to Fredonia, Kansas where Conlee enjoyed competing and excelling at basketball, baseball, and track, while making memories lifeguarding and waterskiing during the summers on Lake Toronto. He graduated from Fredonia High School in 1967, then continued his education at Butler County Community College, later graduating from Emporia State University with a Bachelors of Science in Business. During those years, he formed lifelong friendships, proudly pledged Alpha Kappa Lambda fraternity, and met the love of his life, Roxanne “Roxie” Hague—the beginning of a remarkable journey built on love, laughter, and partnership.
For 52 beautiful years, Conlee shared a deep and enduring love with his wife, Roxie. Together, they built a life centered on family, laughter, adventure and, unwavering support.
Conlee was a successful leader in lumber sales for almost 40 years, a profession that led his family on a journey throughout Arizona, Texas, Illinois, and Kansas, before settling in Livonia, Michigan. In retirement, he and Roxie embraced life fully, splitting time between their loft in downtown Detroit and a home in Saugatuck, while continuing a life-long enthusiasm for cross-country road trips visiting friends, family and new destinations.
His very best days were spent surrounded by his children and five grandchildren. The ultimate cheerleader, Conlee was always present, encouraging, and proud. As a devoted father, he was the constant chauffeur, driving Emily to early morning skate practices and evening dance lessons, never missing a competition, performance or game. He later beamed with pride as he watched her become a loving mother and pursue her passion for design. He supported Sean wholeheartedly throughout his pursuits creating lifelong memories over camping trips, sporting events, time with his young family, and championing the growth of Detroit City Football Club every step of the way as a field painter, carpenter, ticket salesman, and wherever else he was needed.
As a grandfather, he found immeasurable joy in the simplest moments—rocking babies to sleep, helping little ones take their first steps, and reading books. He loved playing with his grandchildren and cheering loudly from the sidelines. His laughter was contagious, his stories unforgettable, and his presence a constant source of joy.
A master craftsman, he was the go-to handyman for family and friends, remodeling homes, building and refinishing furniture, restoring antiques, and creating intricate stained glass pieces that reflected both his patience and artistry. When not working in his woodshop or garden, Conlee enjoyed taking in a Lake Michigan sunset, catching a Kansas basketball game, riding around town on his custom DCFC bicycle, or birdwatching.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Iona Lorraine Charbonneau Mann and John Henry Mann, and his sister, Julie Cheryl Mann Siddens. He is survived by his beloved wife, Roxanne Hague Mann; his children, Sean (Rachel) Mann and Emily (Sean) Fengya; and his cherished grandchildren, Arthur and Willard Mann, Eleanor, Eugene Conlee Jr., and Edward Fengya. He is also survived by his brother, John Craig (Tula) Mann, along with numerous nieces and nephews who will remember him fondly.
His legacy is one of love, laughter, hard work, and generosity. He leaves behind a family who adored him, friends who cherished him, and a lifetime of stories that will continue to be told for generations to come. Though he is gone, his light remains—in every sunset, every shared story, and every act of kindness inspired by his example.
In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor Conlee may make a donation to the Mann Family Community Engagement Fund, established through DCFC’s non-profit to promote access to soccer and sports for youth in the city of Detroit for years to come. https://dcfccity.sprocketsports.com/club/donations
A public celebration of Conlee will be held Saturday, August 15 in Detroit, Michigan. Conlee loved nothing more than a good time, surrounded by his favorite people and watching a Detroit City FC game. Additional details to come at a later date.
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