Geraldine "Geri" Spies

Geraldine Louise “Geri” Spies was born on April 26, 1944, in Aspinwall, Iowa, to Lester and Ruby (Cavanaugh) Dammann. She grew up in Manning and graduated from Manning High School with the Class of 1962, where she enjoyed playing the trumpet in the school band.

After high school, Geri worked for a telephone company, operating the switchboard for a time. It was during her school years that she met her high school sweetheart, Kenneth Spies. The two were married on October 3, 1964, in Manning, Iowa. In the late 1980s and early 1990s, Geri returned to school and earned her associate’s degree. A lifelong learner, she continued taking classes throughout her life to explore new topics and expand her knowledge.

Geri began her career at Manning Creamery, which later became Wells Blue Bunny, and later transitioned into banking, where she worked in various financing roles at several institutions.

She had a deep love for the outdoors and took great pride in her flowers and vegetable gardens. Her dedication to beautifying the community was evident in her commitment to securing grants and caring for the city’s flower beds. Geri also had a deep appreciation for music and the orchestra, especially enjoying the pep band and attending her grandchildren’s events.

Geri’s zest for life was unmatched—she proudly held the title of being the first 80-year-old woman in Manning still able to do cartwheels. She generously volunteered her time to the community and was deeply involved in its wellbeing.

Geri and Ken spent their entire lives in Manning, where they were proud business owners. They founded Spies Outdoor Sports from their home in 1961, a business that grew into a storefront and still serves the community to this day.

Geri passed away on June 19, 2025, at the Manning Regional Healthcare Center, surrounded by her family, having attained the age of 81 years, one month and 25 days. In addition to her parents, Lester and Ruby Dammann, she was preceded in death by brother, Kenneth Dammann.

She is survived by her husband of 60 years, Ken Spies of Manning; two daughters, Tammy (Cary) Vorheis of Iowa City, IA and Paula Spies of Templeton, IA; son, Kendall Spies (significant other, Lindsay Pellett-Jensen) of Manning; four grandchildren: Andrew Taylor (Gabriella), Mariah Spies (Jordan), Dylan Spies (Paola), and Carter Spies (Lam); siblings, extended family members, and friends.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, June 28, 2025, at The Spies Farm, 13789 300th Street, Manning from 4-7pm. Private graveside services were held at the Manning City Cemetery. Pastor Lori Shannon officiated and grandson, Carter Spies played the violin. Memorials may be directed to: All Strings Attached, 1205 Hwy 30 W, Suite H1, Carroll, IA 51401, Manning Rotary or St. Anthony Regional Cancer Center.

The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to the staff at St. Anthony Hospital and to Michelle Kroeger, ARNP, for the exceptional care, compassion, and support they provided.