Joseph J. Mann Jr.

Joseph John Mann, Jr., age 80, passed peacefully late Tuesday while under hospice care at Linda Manor in Leeds on April 1, 2015. He was surrounded by his loving family during his last days. Born Dec. 21, 1934 in Hardwick to the late Joseph and Stella (Miarecki) Mann, Joe grew up in West Springfield helping with the care of his four brothers and two sisters. He spent many a summer working on his grandfather's farm in Whately, and his first job was as an auto body technician at West Springfield Auto Body. He then served with distinction for over three years in the U.S. Navy on an aircraft carrier during the Korean War. Joe returned stateside to work as an auto body technician at Sears, and then for over thirty years in the U.S. Postal Service as a Mail Handler. Upon retirement, he took a part-time job with Keinath Auto Body as a technician. Joe stopped working in 2007. As a young family man seeking to further his education, Joe began taking night classes at STCC under the GI Bill. Well known for his great work ethic and attention to detail, Joe had an ability to do the work of many and received a number of awards/commendations for his accomplishments. He enjoyed music, playing cribbage (Joe once even achieved a perfect hand), vacationing on the coast of Maine, hockey, football, baseball, and auto racing. During retirement he was an avid walker, and he spent many hours helping to care for and raise his grandchildren, Abby and Mikey Mann and great niece, Paige Davis. For the last eight years of his life he suffered from an undiagnosed memory impairment and was cared for by his brothers Charles and John. Though he needed daily assistance, he remained easy going and friendly to all. Joe is survived by his son Edward Mann, daughter Anne-Marie Mann, three brothers William Mann, Charles Mokrzecki, and John Mokrzecki, and three grandchildren Abby Mann, Michael Mann, and Emily DelVecchio. In addition, he will be sorely missed by his many nieces and nephews. Joe was preceded in death by a brother, Stanley Mann and three sisters, Frances Pine, Veronica Williams, and Helena Garanin. Joe knew just about everyone in West Springfield and was well liked by all - he was a kind, considerate man - a true gentleman who would literally give you the shirt off his back if you asked. All those who were touched by his good nature shall grieve the loss. Calling hours will be held at the West Springfield Curran-Jones Funeral Home, 109 Main St. on Monday from 4 - 7 p.m. A private military burial will follow. Donations in his memory may be made to the West Springfield Boys and Girls Club, 615 Main Street, West Springfield, MA 01089, the West Springfield Senior Center, 128 Park Street, West Springfield, MA 01089 or Linda Manor of Leeds, 349 Haydenville Road, Northampton, MA 01053.