Giovanni Mancini

Giovanni Mancini, 91, of Fonda, passed away peacefully on January 11, 2013 at the Edward L. Wilkinson Residential Health Care Facility, Amsterdam, N.Y. Giovanni was the son of the late Giuseppe Mancini and Francesca Proia Mancini. He was born in Sezze, Latina, Province, Italy on November 26th, 1921. During the latter half of World War II, Giovanni proudly served in the Italian 8th Regiment alongside the Allies, later immigrating to the United States in 1948. Giovanni was employed by the Fonda-Fultonville Central School District until his retirement in 1987. A devoted husband and father, he wed Flora Barletta Mancini in 1950 and together they raised three sons. Giovanni was a family man and always enjoyed family gatherings as well as the accomplishments and milestones of his children and grandchildren. He also enjoyed; gardening, wine making, fishing, opera, soccer and taking trips with the family. Although he had little formal education he was and avid reader and grudgingly gave "sage" advice that often proved true. He was a faithful member of St. Cecilia's Parish and a long-time member of the Glen-Mohawk Seniors. His wife Flora passed away in 1997. Giovanni was also predeceased by a brother; Michael Mancini and a sister; Marianna Mancini Proia, both of Sezze, Italy. Giovanni is survived by his three sons, Joseph ManciniAndrea, Alessandro ManciniMary, and John ManciniDonna, all of Fonda. He is also survived by a sister; Benilda Mancini DiGulia, of Sezze, Italy, grandchildren; Christopher, Cara, MichaelGina, Matthew, Alexa, Gianna, Juliette and Johnny, along with several nieces and nephews. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Wednesday, January, 16, 2013 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Cecilia's Parish in Fonda, N.Y. with the Rev. Patrick Gallagher OFM Conv., as celebrant. The family invites relatives and friends to join them in a calling period from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, January15, 2013 at Jackson and Betz Funeral Home, 15 Main St., Fultonville, N.Y. In lieu of flowers, those who wish may make a donation in Giovanni's memory please make it out to The Glen-Mohawk Seniors, 23 Prospect St., Fonda, N.Y., 12068 or Hospice of Amsterdam, 246 Manny's Corners road, Amsterdam, NY 12010. Please sign the family guest book on line at www.brbsfuneral.com.