The Woodbury High School auditorium was packed to standing-room-only. We cried and we laughed and we prayed as Manya was remembered by her sister, co-workers and friends from everywhere. They spoke about the joy of their friendships and the power of her deep faith. Their stories were personal, affectionate, sometimes humorous, incredibly well-told and deeply moving. Manya loved people easily and left them better off for having known her.

The greatest joy of her life was her son Oliver, “She loved you before you were born”.

Minneapolis-Seattle-Minneapolis-God-Mom-Friends written with a Sharpie. A message from an amazing young woman.

Manya and Oliver

Manya was a warm and caring woman filled with love and hope. She grew up in Dodge Center, Minnesota, and graduated from Triton High School in 1998. She attended Pacific Lutheran University, playing volleyball and earning a bachelor’s of science in psychology. She went on to gain a master’s degree in counseling psychology at Bethel University. Manya worked in management at Target Corp. since 2003 where her co-workers remember her as witty, outgoing and an outstanding worker.

Mayna died tragically from a domestic assault on January 6, 2013 at the young age of 32. She left behind her parents, 4 siblings and a beautiful 17-month-old son.

Oliver

His daycare teachers describe Oliver as that child who “lights up the room. He has stolen all of our hearts. He deserves love, peace and hope.”

No one can ever replace his mother but we can join together as a community to support Oliver by providing resources for his education and other future needs. 100% of all contributions will go to benefit Oliver.

www.manyamemorialfund.com