Harry Richard Mankins

Mankins, Harry Richard
83 of Glendale, AZ; Passed away peacefully on June 7, 2014 surrounded by his family and friends. Harry is survived by Sharon, his loving wife of 60 years, children Richard Mankins and family, Larry Mankins and family, and Diane Mankins, and by his sister Jo Beth Viggiano. Harry was born in the beautiful hills of West Virginia, and with his wife, Sharon, was able to explore and enjoy all 50 states and many parts of the world. After graduating Kingwood High School, Harry joined the U.S. Air Force and ultimately progressed to the rank of Lt. Colonel. In the U.S. Air Force, Harry served as a Navigator on the B-36 and B-52 bombers. In the later years of his honorable and decorated Military career, he served at the Pentagon in Washington, DC as the Head of Maintenance for the B-52 bomber fleet. Among his honors included awards from the President of the United States and Secretary of the Air Force for saving the taxpayers millions in spending. After retiring from the Air Force, Harry went on to work for The Boeing Company and worked tirelessly as a Sr. Program Manager supporting the fleet of KC-135 Tankers. Harry retired from Boeing in 1990 and has traveled extensively with Sharon, volunteered countless hours with his church and other interests that benefit the community. Harry taught all those who knew him that being a Patriot was a way of life and required sacrifice, that success comes from hard work and focus, and that love is a commitment made for a lifetime. The world is a better place because of Harry, and we will always remember his departing salutation, "Bye, for now."