Karin Spangenberg Stein Manning departed this life on September 9, 2013, surrounded by her loving friends. Karin was born in Kassel, Germany and moved to the United States in her early 20’s. She married Lt Col Gail H. Manning, USAF and they traveled the world together until his passing in 2002.
Karin is survived by her two brothers, Lothar and Wolfgang Spangenberg, both of Germany, and is preceded in death by her parents Kurt and Anna Spangenberg, and her loving husband.
Karin spent the last 48 years in Colorado Springs, where she became deeply involved in her real estate career. She was a director of the Pikes Peak Association of Realtors and was the President of the Women’s Council of Realtors. She also received an award for Sales and Marketing Council Person of the Year and MAME Award for Best Exclusive Onsite Salesperson. Karin worked with several real estate offices, including 16 years with Classic Homes, touching the lives of friends, associates and customers alike with her professionalism, class, passion, wry sense of humor and with her heart of gold.
After her “retirement” in 2008, Karin shifted her focus and full energy as a staunch advocate for veterans and their families. She held various offices with the Pikes Peak Chapter of Military Officers Association of America, Retired Officer Wives Club and MOAA Singles. Karin was event coordinator for Home Front Cares and headed the “Cell Phones for Soldiers” campaign.
Karin was a gracious hostess, enjoyed flowers, shopping and playing Bunko. She lived a valued life and will be remembered by her colleagues and friends alike as a genuine woman of courage, dignity and selfless service. We feel blessed and honored to have known her, and to have called her friend.
A special thank you to the wonderful caregivers at Memorial Hospital and Pikes Peak Hospice who so compassionately cared for Karin in her final days. In honor of Karin, donations may be sent to The Home Front Cares or the Pikes Peak Chapter/MOAA Scholarship Fund.