After moving to Gladstone from Indiana in 1957 with her husband, Dr. George Maniaci, and their five children, Lou was civically active in the City of Gladstone, Delta County and at the State level.

The Maniacis were not only instrumental in launching the Kennedy School in Escanaba for children with special needs but also were majorly involved in the development of State legislation for broadening Michigan schools.

Lou was one of the first board members of Lakestate Industries, which was founded in 1969 to help find employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities.

In 2013, Lou retired from a 28-year spell on the Delta-Schoolcraft Intermediate School District (DSISD) Board at the age of 89.

This clipping, which announces that Gladstone resident Luella Maniaci was elected to the Michigan Special Olympics Board of Directors, was published in the Daily Press on July 9, 1988.

“Although she has a remarkable list of civic accomplishments, she is most noted for being ‘Mark’s Mom,'” wrote her son Steve Maniaci, referencing his brother with Down’s Syndrome who was the inspiration for much of George and Lou’s work.

The family name for a while clung to the George D. Maniaci Center, which is now Pathways Community Mental Health.

Lou continues to reside the family home on Wisconsin Avenue, with the live-in help of her family.

“The sinister affects of advancing dementia have robbed us all of her quick wit, sense of humor and amazing intellect, but she is remarkably healthy,” Steve said.

He added that the family has a number of plaques and various awards recognizing his mother’s many contributions. Steve described himself as one of his parents’ biggest fans.