Charles J. “CJ” Manners, 39, of Lancaster, died September 28 at Penn Medicine/Lancaster General Hospital from complications of an apparent drug overdose. He worked as a sous chef at Brethren Village. He is survived by his parents, Beth and Chuck, and sister, Kate, who reside together in Lancaster, as well as extended family members in western Pennsylvania, Ohio, Arizona, and Texas.
Despite a serious brain injury suffered at age 7, which in his adult years also led to development of epilepsy, CJ competed in sports (and especially loved ice hockey); graduated from Hempfield High School; and earned a bachelor’s degree in graphic design from the Art Institute of Pittsburgh.
CJ also became an accomplished cook, working in area restaurants and retirement-community kitchens over the last several years. He loved trying new recipes, organizing new menus, and sampling the fare of other cooks wherever he traveled.
CJ was known for his big smile, even bigger heart, and compassion for those he sensed were vulnerable or in need. He was deeply committed to his work in the addiction-recovery community. Unfortunately, he also struggled with his own addiction issues, which recently became active again, leading to his demise.
CJ loved his sister, Kate, fiercely and that love was returned in kind. She writes:
My darling CJ, thank you for being the best human being I ever knew in my life. Thank you for letting me love you and including me in your life. I will miss you every day, but I will always remember the wonderful things you taught me; the greatest of these is love. Until the time comes when we meet again, I love you. I will miss you forever, but I will try to take care of the people you left behind, including myself, to the best of my ability. I can’t promise that will be as good as you could do for me, but I’ll try to live my life the way you’d want me to. Rest in peace. Mom and dad and I love you and we’ll see you again someday.
The family would like to recognize the outstanding neurological care CJ received over the last decade at Penn Medicine – Philadelphia as well as the compassionate end-of-life care at Lancaster General. In lieu of flowers, please consider contributions to White Deer Run Treatment Network – Lancaster, The RASE Project of Lancaster, or First Presbyterian Church of Lancaster.
A celebration of CJ’s life will be held at 11:00 AM Saturday, November 5, at First Presbyterian Church, 140 E. Orange St., Lancaster, Pa 17602. The family will greet guests immediately following the service. A reception is also planned at the church.
Ahmad Chaudhary says
Beth and family: I am so sorry to hear of CJ’s passing.
Sending my deepest condolences and sympathies
Jay Aukamp says
Chuck,Beth, Kate
I am so sorry for your loss CJ Will be missed deeply in the recovery community along with his family again my condolences prayers for you and your family
Mike Ellis says
It is with such a heavy heart that I hear of this passing. CJ’s love is so big. It was an honor to know him in this world and it will be with open arms that he welcomes me to the next. I know this.
Karen Amendola says
My heartfelt sympathy goes out to Beth, Chuck and Kate. Although I never met CJ, I know that his love and caring nature will live on forever. Aunt Melodee used to speak of CJ & Kate often during our years of teaching together. May God be with all if you. He’s with Gurlee now…
Sincerely, Karen Amendola
Dave Heilig says
I was blessed to have know C.J. It was always a pleasure to see him. May he be at peace now.
Marc Oleskowitz says
Beth, my condolences to you and your family. CJ will truly be missed. Sending love and hugs.
Lauren says
Sending lots of love to you three. CJ’s sense of humor (and the fact that he could not conceal his laughter at all!) made meetings fun. He will certainly be missed.
Gail Alexander says
Thinking of you dear, dear friends.
Praying that God will surround you with Grace, Comfort and Deep Love as only He can.
CJ’s bright light will continue to glow in your hearts and in those who knew him.
With Deepest Sympathy,
Gail Alexander
Heather Hornberger says
Beth , Chuck , and Kate,
So sorry for your loss. You are in my prayers. Sending love.
Michael J Phillips says
We are so very sorry for your loss.
We are praying for your family!
Mike Shaub says
Prayers go out to CJ’s family. Rest In Peace my friend. I always enjoyed our conversations.
Lydia Ricks says
To the Manners Family:
CJ had an incredibly passionate and loving soul. I am so privileged to have known and loved him. I loved to make him smile and laugh, as I knew how much he suffered throughout his life. His persistence and strength has inspired so many people. I will forever cherish our special memories together. He had such a profound impact in the recovery community, and he will always be remembered.
Cindy Book says
Beth and Kate (and the rest of the family)
Words will never express how my heart aches for you. CJ had such a presence. The CJ I got to know, had a great sense of humor and the most wonderful smile that could light up any room. He will be forever missed by so many. Love to you all
Marcia Kuntz says
Dear Manners, My heartfelt condolences. He was a wonderful human. He lit up the room with his smile and Will be deeply missed in the recovering community. Fly with the Angels CJ Love, Marcia
Ingrid Vail says
Surrounding your family in love and positive thoughts for the future. We remember CJ and Kate as happy young children many years ago. We pray your memories will bring you peace.
Ingrid and. Bob Vail
Victoria Newcomer says
Dear Family,
We hold sweet and fond memories of CJ and his wonderful friendship with Christian. CJ was a kind and gentle soul and we thank you for sharing him with us.
Our prayer is that God will send his angels of comfort and healing to you and that He will wrap his loving arms around you and give you peace.
Warmly,
Brian and Vicki Newcomer
Sandra J Baird says
I am so, so sad. This is a great loss. I haven’t finished reading the obituary because of my tears. He held a very special place in my heart. Please know that my prayers are with all of you who loved him. He was a gift and will be missed. I thank his family for sharing him with us.
Heather Szmerda says
Keeping you all in my thoughts and prayers in this difficult time. I am so sorry for your loss. CJ was such a sweet guy. I remember picking Katie up at school in the van when we were kids. He has always loved Katie so much. My deepest sympathies.
Deb Shaub says
My deepest condolences. I am so sorry for your loss. God has a special purpose for him and it is an honor to be with the Lord as he serves him. He will deeply be missed. Praying that God surrounds and hugs you as you journey without him.
My deepest sympathy. -Deb Shaub
Grace Sauder says
My sincere condolences to you and your family Kate. My prayers are with you all.at this time and the days ahead.
Lauren Ellis says
My heart breaks for you all. CJ was one of the best humans. I will forever be thankful for his friendship, laughs, and hugs
Donna Wilcox says
Such a beautiful and heartfelt tribute to CJ, a loving soul that I will miss so much. May your family experience the peace that passes understanding as you receive the love of God and the love of your friends. My deepest sympathies to everyone who loves CJ.
Meg Macfarlane says
Such a loving man, with the best hugs. My heart goes out to all who loved him, particularly Kate, Beth and Chuck.
Ramona (Osborne) Kennedy says
Thinking of you at this difficult time, my thoughts and prayers are with you.
With deep sympathy
Ramona Kennedy
Laura Rusch says
Dearest Beth, Chuck and Kate – my deepest sympathy to you during this difficult time. May happy memories of CJ comfort you. And thank you for such a lovely tribute to him!
Bill Turner says
To CJ’s family, my deepest condolences on his passing. I have nothing but fond memories of CJ throughout our time together at Hempfield. A special group of kids passed through my doors over the years, and CJ was one of the best. Although we experience a loss, take comfort in having the pleasure to have known CJ while he was here with us. I will always remember his smile.
Michael and Philomena Phillips says
Our dear friend, Beth and family. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. May God wrap around you and carry you through this difficult time.
Michael and Philomena
Sandy Eberts says
So sorry for your loss! Our prayers are with you and your family.
Marilyn Alberti says
Beth and family. Iam so so sorry to see this loss. I loved when he gave his hugs. He will be sorely missed. May you have comfort with prayers and hugs from all. Know that you are surrounded with your Higher Power’s and the recovery community love. Blessings to you, your husband and Kate..
Erica Joline Rohrer says
I am a former classmate of CJ’s from Hempfield. I was saddened to hear the news of his passing. My memories of him are his contagious smile and how kind and genuine he was. I know he was so much more to you all, and my heart hurts for you as you grieve his loss here on Earth. I’ll be praying this verse for you in the days/months to come:
“The Lord is near to the broken-hearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”
-Psalm 34:18
Heather Landers says
To CJ’s family, I am so so sorry for your loss. I went to school and graduted with Cj. I will always remember his smile and how kind he was to everyone. I will keep you all in my prayers as you go through this horrible time
Sharon Burnside says
Dear Bet, Chuck and Kate- As I was reading the condolences, I remembered C J’s big hugs and big smiles. He was a special young man who touched many hearts including his friends at GBC. My prayers are with your family…God is walking beside you through this difficult time.
With love…
Sharon Burnside says
Dear Beth, Chuck and Kate- As I was reading the condolences, I remembered C J’s big hugs and big smiles. He was a special young man who touched many hearts including his friends at GBC. My prayers are with your family…God is walking beside you through this difficult time.
With love…
Mark Jack says
So sorry for your loss. I’ll pray daily for C.J. and the family.
Allison Yinger says
CJ was always so lovely. He brought a smile to my face. He was kind and funny. He will be missed. I am holding all of you in my heart.
Kevin Anderson says
Beth and family CJ will be deeply missed my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family May he Rest In Peace
Ronnie Dunn says
My deepest condolences to Beth and the entire Manners family. I always enjoyed talking hockey with Cj. He will be missed dearly. RIP my friend
Carlyn (Frey) Fryberger says
I will always remember CJ’s smile and laughter in Youth Group at First Pres! His smile was contagious, and he consistently put others first. To the Manners family: may God embrace you in His arms.
Chris Kennedy says
I just wanted to offer my deepest sympathy. I didn’t know CJ but I know what it’s like to battle these damn demons everyday. This tribute was beautiful. I’m not a religious person in any way but I hope you are right and we do get to see them all again. I’ll be thinking of CJ and your family. Rest in piece young man.
Sherrie Pope says
Beth and family,my deepest condolences with you and your family in these times.. His smile could light up a room.. my prayers are with you all
AUGIE TITTEL says
1st and foremost, to Beth,Chuck and the entire Manners Family, my heart-felt condolences. May GOD keep his loving arms wrapped around all of you in this time of sorrow and pain. FOR my friend, a brother that I could only wished that I had, that allowed me the honor and privilege to have known him and his huge presence in my life as well as others,you will surely be missed. Your pain is over but your memory will live on forever in the lives you have touched.
Jeff Fasnacht says
Patsy and I extend our heartfelt condolences to the Manners family. The CJ I coached in Little League baseball was such a happy little guy. The CJ I knew as an adult still was quick to flash his trademark smile. I know he will be greatly missed by his family and friends.
-Jeff & Patsy Fasnacht
Meredith Steidler says
I knew CJ because he came to Prime Time youth group and events thru Faith Calvary Church with Chris Newcomer and family. CJ’s heart shown right through him- he was always kind, genuine and had positive words to share no matter what! He always made me feel accepted and left me with a smile. I am so sorry for your loss here on earth- I am rejoicing in the thought of CJ dancing in complete freedom from all struggle and pain, and know he is interceding for his loved ones still on earth. When we all get to Heaven, what a day of rejoicing that will be! Asking your Heavenly Father to be ever close to you now as you all complete your race on your patch of ground. That you feel His presence and have His peace even through this excruciating loss.
David Bossler says
So sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Kim Draude says
Manners Family, I’m so sorry for your loss. I hope that the happy memories of CJ comfort you at this sad time.
With sympathy,
Kim Draude (Kathy’s sister)
WandA Gregg says
My heart breaks for you and your family Beth. I never knew CJ but reading Kate’s beautiful tribute to him, he must have been a very special person. I am so very sorry for your loss and pray God surrounds you with Love, peace and comfort as you journey thru this difficult time. Wanda
Jennifer D Cross says
Dear Chuck, Beth, and Kate,
What a wonderfully written tribute to your son and brother. Although I knew CJ relatively briefly, I knew immediately what a kind, thoughtful, and compassionate young man he was. I feel so blessed to have been the recipient of one of his famous hugs! I’m holding you close in my heart in your loss.
Wes Schmidt says
Chuck, Beth and Kate – I’m so sorry for your loss. Sending you lots of love and light. I hope great memories of CJ bring you joy during this difficult time.
Luanne Schreier says
Dear Manners Family, my deepest sympathy goes out to all of you. Sending you heartfelt prayers for God’s comfort and peace to surround you during this time and in the days ahead.
Rob Bair says
Remembering CJ as a refreshing presence to so many people, his creativity, his compassion toward others as well as the special love, care and commitment he shared with his family over the years. He will be missed.
Dick and Liz Richard says
I’m so so sorry you are dealing with this unbelievable loss! Our love light, and prayers for healing go out to all 3 of you!
Maricelle Sheldon says
Dearest Beth, Chuck, Katie and family,
My deepest sympathy to you all. There are no words, surrounding you with love and light. I will always remember CJ’s humor, creativity and compassion. He had such courage. May he Rest In Peace. I will miss him greatly.
All my love, -Maricelle
Karen Steffy says
CJ lit up a room by his very presence. I will miss him and his warm smile. He always had a kind word to say. I wish you all peace in this time of grief. I know that he will be so missed by all of you.
Michael p Anderson says
Rest in peace my friend I will always have that big smile of you to remember you touched a lot of lives while you were here to the family thank you for sharing CJ with us with his food experiences and his recovery remember God first till we meet again
Brenda McDonald( formerly Center Stage employee) says
Beth and family
So sorry to hear of your loss. My sons Chad and Brad went to school with ch and thought he was a great person. Sometimes we lose sight of things along the way but there’s one thing for sure. We will never lose sight of the joy our loved ones bring us . Remember those times and hold your head up high for you will meet again. Bless you in these troubled times . Prayers be with you
Brenda McDonald . Hugs and kisses from afar❤️
Lee Levato says
We are so terribly sorry for your loss !! May his big heart and smile live on in you all!!! Your letter is beautifully written Kate!
Love , Lee and Larry Levato
Lisa Divet says
Chuck, Beth and Kate… I was so incredibly saddened to read of CJs passing. He was a bright spot on a gloomy day with the most contagious smile we shan’t forget. Hugs, and prayers for you at this most difficult time.
Terri Pons says
I can’t imagine the amount of loss and pain you all are enduring…May you find comfort in Gods care and love ❤️. CJ was an incredible and talented young man. I’m grateful we crossed paths. His smile and energy were a joy to experience. Prayers for the family
Bonnie Jess Lopane says
Dear Beth, Kate and Chuck,
I am so sorry for your loss of CJ. Please know that you and CJ are in my thoughts and prayers.
Sincerely,
Bonnie Jess Lopane
Amy M says
Beth:
I am sure there are no words to express the loss you and Chuck and Kate are suffering. CJ was a rare gift given to so many of us. May your deep sorrow for CJ’s death be matched with gratitude for his life.
Kim Wilder says
CJ’s joyful way of looking at the world and perseverance in the face of hardship will always be a valuable gift that I hold close to my heart. Sending love like a warm blanket to wrap your family in as you move forward.
Susan Jones- Sink says
Beth and family,
I was so sad to read of the passing of your beloved son. Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers.
May “CJ’s” memory always be a blessing.
Susan Jones- Sink
Becky Noll says
May you feel so surrounded by the love and prayers of so many people who love you and care about you. My love and prayers.
Nurse Becky (Lancaster Pediatric Nurse)
Tom Hoober says
Dear Chuck, dear Beth, dear Kate,
While I don’t understand Chuck Junior‘s early departure from this world I do believe that God is everywhere at all times and for reasons I don’t understand has called Chuck Junior to be with him. .
I will keep the three of you in my prayers and thoughts as we all go forward.
Dan McCullough says
Bye, old friend. You were good to me. I hadn’t seen you in years, but clearly you were loved.
Karen Foutz says
CJ will be missed by many inside and outside of our rooms. He always had a great big hug for me whenever I saw him and that great smile. Prayers for his family and friends. May we rest better today just knowing we will meet again. Hugs and love to you CJ.
Jenny Braas says
Dear Manners family-
So very sad to hear of CJ’s tragic passing. My heart breaks for you.. He was a fabulous cook and very kind… I got to know him as he walked with me at the women’s March in Washington DC. He cared so much about others and I hope that he has found peace. It ‘s obvious from reading comments here that he was loved by all who met him.
Caleb and Elisabeth Heidebrecht says
To Chuck, Beth and Kate: we are so sorry for your loss. I really enjoyed getting to know CJ when he was in high school. He had such a creative and independent spirit. It was clear that he was well loved and cared for by all of you. Our thoughts and prayers are with you as you continue on with his memory.
Caleb and Elisabeth
Co-worker says
I’m so sorry for the loss of CJ. We worked with him @BV. He will truly be missed. His smile his sense of humor and he was always straight up.
RIP Home Slice. Till we meet again
Mason Adams says
CJ came into my life when I was at a very young age. My dad Jason had brought him into my life and I couldn’t be more grateful for the times I shared with him and my dad. I was so hurt to find out what happened, and on the entire behalf of the Manners family I am so sorry for your loss.
Wayne Kocher says
Chuck I can not even imagine the emotions you are experiencing losing a son. Lost my wife to cancer a few years ago and I am still dealing with that part of my life. My most heart felt condolences and may God help you find solace and comfort during these trying times. RIP Chuck.
Wendy Herner says
Chuck, Beth and Kate,
I’m was so saddened for you when I heard about CJ. I remember him working at Godfrey for a time long ago and how sweet he was and how he made me laugh. I am so sorry, I can’t even imagine what you’re going through. Keep up the love and you will see him again.
Donna and Peter Horvath says
Chuck and Beth,
Its been years since we’ve been in touch, but we remember how proud you were of CJ when he was still a small child. May your fondest memories of him give you comfort and peace.
Debbie Ronning says
My heart goes to you….. with much sadness.
Mary Anne Hanley says
Dear Beth, Chuck and Katie, It is so hard to look at your house and not see C. J. standing out back. I loved his big smile and warm heart, always ready to lend a helping hand. God Bless You all with lots of strength and courage to face the future bravely. Love and thank you for being the best neighbors. Love, Mary Anne and Matt
Debbie Cochran Welch says
Beth, Chuck and Kate,
I am so sorry to hear of the passing of CJ. You are all in my thoughts and prayers! I wish you all much comfort and peace during this difficult time.
Love always,
Debbie
Kathy Weaver says
Beth and family,
We are so sorry to hear of your loss. May your memories of good times sustain you as you all move forward. God has a plan for all of us and I am sure CJ will be welcomed with open arms into heaven.
With love,
Jim and Kathy Weaver
Lydia says
I work at BV and always passed him in the halls. Chatted a few times, very friendly,smiled alot. Very sorry to find out of your loss.
Natalie says
My heartfelt condolences to the family. Kate anyone that knew you knew your brother loved you dearly. Mr and Mrs. Manners I wrote my arms around you both. Your family is the epitome of love. I love you guys.
Natalie.
Dan, Patti and Evan Becker says
Dear Chuck and Family,
We are so sorry for your great loss. Praying for all of you in this difficult time.
Sincerely,
Dan, Patti and Evan Becker
Deb Shaub says
My deepest condolences. I wish I could be there today for his celebration but I am very sick myself. I will be thinking of you all and knowing that he is now at the awesome place ever – with God He will truly be missed but god is needing him
Rich Reichle says
I was so shocked to learn the CJ had left us I meet him in late July and we just clicked, which doesn’t happen often if at all with me, but he was such a special person my heart goes out to his family I can’t imagine what the have gone through during this terrible time.
The world is a little less bright today with out CJ in it I am going to miss him.