Obituary

Adele Vivian Mann went home to the Lord on January 4, 2025, leaving a beautiful sunset and a loving family in her wake. Adele was born to Herman and Amelia Hykkonen on Easter Morning, 1932, in Ironwood Michigan. Her father and maternal grandparents immigrated from Finland. She was raised among her many aunts, uncles and cousins of Finnish descent. Adele was a bonus baby– her brothers Herman, Herbert and sister Agnes were 16,14 and 13 years older and they doted on her. Family and faith were the cornerstones of her life.

Eventually Adele and her parents moved to sunny Southern California for better weather and to be closer to brother Herman and his family. It was in Los Angeles that Adele met the love of her life and husband of 48 years, Clarence Mann. They were married the day after he graduated from Cal Poly SLO.

Adele and Clarence’s honeymoon years were spent in Los Angeles. They moved to Downey to raise their four children, Mike, Gary, Larry and Diana. Their house on Gaymont Avenue was in the perfect neighborhood for Adele to bring up her children. Her station wagon was in almost constant motion– driving the kids to sports, confirmation classes, school, and scout meetings. Adele and Clarence made several additions to the house, including a before-its-time open concept kitchen and a swimming pool – perfect for swim parties with cousins and the neighborhood kids.

In 1977, the family moved to a house on 2^nd Street in Downey, where they were eventually joined by Adele’s mother, Amelia. Much entertaining was done in this home, including baby and bridal showers, christening parties for grandchildren, birthdays and holiday celebrations. Adele always said she raised her children on Gaymont Avenue and married them off from 2^nd street.

As her children started their own families, Adele worked part-time as a bookkeeper. She and Clarence continued taking their RV on adventures and family camp-outs. Retirement came calling and the pair headed to Palm Desert. They made many friends at their senior housing development also known as the “Cruise Ship that Never Docked.” They hosted the family Christmas gathering on December 26^th every year so the entire Mann Clan could celebrate together. Adele and Clarence continued to travel throughout North America, trading the RV in for tour buses and cruise ships.

When Clarence passed away in 2000, Adele embraced her role as the kind and caring matriarch who gave and received joy by celebrating holidays as a family. During this time Adele became a world traveler, visiting 18 countries, sometimes bringing one or two of her grandchildren along for the adventure. In 2015, Adele moved to Orange County to be closer to family.

When she went home to the Lord, she joined her husband, Clarence, son Mike and many family members and friends. Her legacy of love, family and faith continues to inspire us.

Sisu — Finnish Noun

A special strength and
persistent resolve to continue
in the moment of adversity;
an almost magical quality…
a combination of stamina,
perseverance, courage and
determination held in reserve
for hard times.