The Correctional Peace Officers Foundation recently provided assistance to the family of Correctional Officer Michael Maness of Sierra Conservation Center following his passing on May 6, 2026.

With faith in God’s promises and gratitude for a life well lived, Michael Eugene Kealoha Maness entered into the presence of the Lord at the age of 64 at his home in Hughson, California.

Born on September 28, 1961, in Honolulu, Hawaii, Michael lived a life defined by faith, family, service, and integrity. After accepting Christ as his Lord and Savior in 1981, he faithfully walked with the Lord throughout his life, serving as an example of devotion, kindness, and humility to those around him.

Michael was known for his unwavering love for God, his gracious heart toward others, and his steadfast dedication to his family. Whether at home, in his church, or at work, he approached every responsibility with excellence and purpose.

Before entering corrections, Michael spent much of his career working in education and coaching, sharing his passion for helping others succeed. He later joined the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, beginning his career at California Men’s Colony in July 2013 as a Custodian. In 2015, he graduated from the Basic Correctional Officer Academy and returned to California Men’s Colony as a Correctional Officer. In May 2018, he transferred to Sierra Conservation Center, where he served in the Integrated Substance Use Disorder Treatment program.

According to Sierra Conservation Center, Officer Maness was greatly respected by both staff and those he supervised. His professionalism, compassion, and commitment to serving others left a lasting impact on everyone who had the privilege of working alongside him.

Outside of work, Michael found his greatest joy in spending time with his beloved wife, children, and grandchildren. He loved family gatherings, the ocean, music, art, skateboarding, sports, and sharing laughter with those he loved. Friends and family remember him for his attention to detail, strong work ethic, and memorable sense of humor.

As Michael often joked:

“Yes, there is only one correct way to load a dishwasher, and multitasking is merely an excuse for mediocrity.”

Michael is survived by his wife, Sandie Maness; his children, Bryce and Maggie Maness, Shayna and Cody Holt, Sarah and Bradley Hasseler, and Elizabeth Madulara; and his grandchildren, Shiley, Janessa, Sawyer, Rori, Avery, Corbin, Charlotte, Ruby, Harrison, Elsey, Hartley, and Hartley. He is also survived by numerous extended family members and friends who will forever cherish his memory.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Annie Marino; his sister, Daylynn Burkle; his father-in-law, Russel Robinson; and his son-in-law, Ian Madulara.

While his family, friends, and coworkers mourn his passing, they take comfort in knowing that Michael’s faith carried him home and that he is now at peace in the presence of his Savior.

The Correctional Peace Officers Foundation extends its deepest condolences to the Maness family, the staff of Sierra Conservation Center, and all who were blessed to know Michael. We are honored to stand alongside our corrections family during times of loss and remind them that they are never alone.

“Taking Care of Our Own.”