David V. Mankevetch “Manky”, 85, passed away peacefully Monday, August 15th, after a brief illness.

David was predeceased by his wife of 50 years, Barbara J. Mankevetch.  He leaves three daughters, Virginia M. Blaszczyk and her husband Ronald, of Spencer; Pamela M. Vigeant and her husband Paul, of Grafton; and Judith A. Loconto and his son-in-law, Robert B. Finne (predeceased) of Brimfield.  His legacy also includes seven grandchildren:  Kimberley Symonowicz, Michael Rene and his wife Sarah, Michelle Vigeant and her spouse Coureton Dalton, Ashley Vigieant and her fiance’, Michael Jacobson, Cynthia Vigeant and her fiance’ David Coburn, Shelly Taft and her husband John Rey, and Stacie Taft and her partner Greg Glanville. David was blessed by several great grandchildren:  Brandon, Leanne, Jackson, Logan, Gabriel, Nolan, Brooke, Summer, Hunter, Sascha, Ivan, Hans, and Nick.

David began his career at Wyman-Gordon Co., as a machinist and worked his way up the corporate ladder, serving in all three plants.  David took early retirement to spend more time caring for and traveling with his wife, Barbara.  They both subscribed to the philosophy of “enjoy each day to its fullest”.  They were fortunate enough to travel, often with long-time friends Jinny and Johnny Lewandowski, to places like Vegas, Reno, Hawaii, Atlantic City, Alaska, and St. Maarten. They always had a fabulous time and returned with many funny stories of their adventures which they enjoyed sharing with others.

David was always interested in challenging himself through courses at WPI as well as at seminars for professional and personal development.

David enjoyed fishing. It didn’t matter whether it was on freshwater ponds, lakes, salt-water, from the shore, on a boat, on the ice, in the rain, or during floods and blizzards.  He loved to swim and water ski.  His golfing buddies enjoyed competing with him and then celebrating at the 19th hole.  He hunted in Canada and Idaho as well as in local Massachusetts areas. David also enjoyed playing all variations of poker at any casino, or with close friends at home, drinking beers.

David’s family and friends are invited to celebrate and his life with a graveside service on Saturday, August 20th, at 11 a.m. in Worcester County Memorial Park, 217 Richards Avenue in Paxton.  Please omit flowers. Memorial contributions may be made to a charity of your choice, as David contributed to many in his later years.