George Manghis, 88, of Plaistow, N.H. and Melbourne Beach, FL. passed on Sat. evening Nov. 2, 2013 at the Vermont Respite House in Williston, VT. With the support and encouragement of wonderful friends, family and caregivers, he was able to stay as engaged and independent as possible through this 6 month journey with his illness

He was born in Haverhill, MA on Feb. 22, 1925, the son of Charles and Ourania Leonardos Manghis. He served in the US Army Corp of Amphibious Engineers during WWIIin the Pacific Theater. He married Lillian Meehan in St. James Church in Haverhill, MA in 1950 and lived in Haverhill for many years. He began working at a young age and never stopped even in retirement. He was a diesel mechanic and opened several of his own businesses throughout his life before joining the teaching staff at Whittier Vocational High School in 1973 where he taught Diesel Mechanics. He served as president of the Teachers Union during that time.

His passions in life were cooking and gathering with family and friends and he often combined the two, serving as chief cook for large family gatherings and various social get-togethers. He was famous for his Bread Pudding and Greek Specialties, his storytelling, his penchant for fixing things and generosity to family and friends. He was independent hardworking, dedicated, stubborn and resourceful in life. He had a great sense of humor and an easy going friendly manner. He found great joy and satisfaction in helping people and he was repaid in much kindness.

He will be dearly missed by his daughter, Mary Manghis and her partner, Glenn Eames, and his faithful feline companion, Kavita. He is survived by his sisters-in-law, Mary Meehan, Kathleen Camic and Carole Manghis, his brother-in-law Richard Meehan and wife Pauline, and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his wife, Lillian; his brothers Harry, Andrew, and Theodore and his sisters Helen and Mary Manghis.

George wished to thank all the dear family and friends who kept him in their thoughts and the amazing staff of the VT. Respite House that made him feel so at home and comfortable in his last days.

Arrangements are in the care of The Cremation Society of Chittenden County of Burlington, Vt. To send online condolences please visit www.cremationsocietycc.com.

For those who wish, memorial donations can be made to the Vermont Respite House, 99 Allen Brook Rd., Williston, VT. 05495.

Burial will take place on Sat. morning Nov. 16 at St. James Cemetery and a memorial gathering will be held at the Roma Restaurant, 29 Middlesex St., Haverhill, Mass from 1:00 pm to 3:30 pm.