Michael Eugene Manson, 60, of Rockford died on October 24, 2013 at 12:25 a.m. in Presence St. Anne Center. He was born on July 20, 1953 in Rockford, son of Wayne and Elizabeth (Thomas) Manson. Graduate of Guilford High School. Formerly employed as a roofer for Lask Roofing. Mike was passionate about fishing, and enjoyed heading north to catch the BIG ONES. In his younger years, he was the life of the party. When his struggle with Multiple Sclerosis became more than he could handle on his own, he moved to St. Anne's where he lived for the last 14 years. He continued to be as spirited as he was in his youth. He was known for his sense of humor, good nature and his prolific use of endearing cuss words directed pretty much at anyone he crossed paths with. Survived by his mother, Elizabeth; son, Christopher Manson; siblings Kathy (Greg Luna) Manson, Tom (Vicki) Manson all of Rockford, and Collene (Dennis) Cordova, of Washington. Preceded in death by his father. Mike's family will be forever grateful to the marvelous staff at St. Annes for the loving care they provided, and also to Northern Illinois Hospice who assisted in Mike's care during his final days. Many thanks go out to Mike's lunch date and good buddy Reno Sandona. Cremation rites have been accorded. A Memorial Service will be on Sunday, December 8, 2013 at 3 p.m. followed by a social gathering until 5 p.m. at Grace Funeral & Cremation Services, 1340 South Alpine Rd. Rockford. Rev. Woody Knutson will officiate. The family has requested that expressions of sympathy take the form of a memorial donation to St. Anne Center. Grace Funeral & Cremation Services is assisting the family, to share a memory or condolence, visit www.GraceFH.com .