Obituary

Manges, John W., 88, Johnstown, went home to be with Jesus on May 2, 2024, at home surrounded by his loving family. Born March 11, 1936, in Hooversville, PA, son of the late John W. Manges, Sr. and Elizabeth (Cusher). Preceded in death by his parents; siblings Elizabeth, Margaret, Joseph, and Dorothy; sons-in-law John Ceslovnik and Bernard Marano; and grandson Jeffrey Keyser. Survived by his loving wife of 65 years, Mary E. (Foust) Manges; daughters Debra Ceslovnik, Susan (Ray) Haupt, Lori (Jeff) Keyser, Nancy Marano, Toni Hill, and Amy (Paul) Hamilton; 13 grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren; special niece Jane (Hank) Pristow; and numerous nieces and nephews.

John was a 1954 graduate of Shade High School. He was an ordained minister in the Western PA District Church of the Brethren (1966) and was the co-founder of New Day, Inc. He began his ministry in 1965 at the Locust Grove Church of the Brethren, where he is a current member, and served many churches as interim pastor, ending his full-time ministry with 20 years of service as the pastor at Morrellville Church of the Brethren.

He loved God and cherished his family dearly. He was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone in need; he lived his life by the guiding principle of “love thy neighbor.” John loved his machinery and could fix anything. He loved having the family over for Sunday dinner, but not just family – everyone was welcome. He loved his pie, hot or cold. His pride and joy was being Pa to his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. John was many things, but his favorite title was “Pa.”

A special thank you to the staff at Windber Hospice for their compassionate care.

Family will receive friends Saturday, May 11, from 10 AM until the celebration of life service at 11 AM at Locust Grove Church of the Brethren (1421 Clapboard Run Road, Johnstown) with Rev. Mike Kenney officiating. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Locust Grove Church of the Brethren or New Day, Inc. Arrangements in care of Hindman Funeral Homes & Crematory Inc., “Exclusive Provider of Veterans and Family Memorial Care.” Condolences may be made at HindmanFuneralHomes.com