James Manduca

It is with profound sadness that the family of James Anthony Manduca announce his passing on Sept 16, 2017 at St Joseph Hospice at the age of 92. He was born and raised in Fort William and lived most of his life on Heron Street.

He is survived by his cherished children Linda Rosin (Luciano), Jim Manduca (Erika), Judy Soave, and Ron Manduca (Kate), numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren, his brothers Tony (Carol) and Sonny (Louise) his sisters Helen Del Ben, Rose Thompson and Lilly (Ian) Shaw, brother-in-law Jerry Smith Sr. and sister-in-law Jackie Manduca, as well as many nieces, nephews and other relatives. Jim was predeceased by his parents Pasquale and Helen Manduca, brother Peter Manduca, sisters Carmel "Tootsie" Smith and Mary Lambert, son-in-law Vince Soave, brother-in-laws Robin  Thompson, Eno Del Ben and Fern Lambert, and sister-in-law Sylvia Manduca.

He loved cars, loved racing cars and watching racing at the track or even at home. In his younger years, you could find him at the CLE grounds and Murillo where he raced his Ford Coupe stock car #73.  There were so many happy times at the track with his family and friends. He also was greatly involved in hockey for many years with the Eskimo hockey team where he devoted many hours of his time volunteering in support of hockey.  He was always there for all of the games and tournaments and he loved all of the kids. He enjoyed traveling to Florida, the Indy 500, Las Vegas and many other racing, camping and gambling trips.

Jim retired as a custodian at Westgate High School.  He often had many stories to tell from those days. He truly enjoyed his working years at the school. When he retired the students and staff honored him with a jacket  that read "Numero Uno". He was well loved and respected. He had a wonderful sense of humor. He made everyone laugh whenever he was around either by telling jokes or pulling a good prank. He would chat with anyone. He kept us all entertained with his stories and always loved a good party, especially if it was for him. He was quick-witted, kind, stubborn, independent and most of all lovable. He was always there for family, friends or anyone that needed help. Above all Jim loved to spend time with his family. Always young at heart, he enjoyed life and people.  He was generous to everyone with his love and time. He was so special, unforgettable and one of a kind. He will be in our hearts forever and deeply missed.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, September 22, 2017, when family and friends will gather for Funeral Mass at 11:00am, at St. Dominic's Church celebrated by Rev. Maurizio Maifredi  c.s..  Interment will follow in Mountain View Cemetery. Visitation for friends and family will be held on Thursday evening September 21 from 6:00 to 8:00 pm in the Blake Funeral Chapel..  If friends desire, memorials to the charity of your choice would be appreciated.