HENRY F. "HANK" MANISTA, age 89, of Portage, formerly of Lake Station, passed away Monday, December 12, 2011 peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family. He was born August 3, 1922 in Kittanning, PA, to Constantine and Angeline Manista. Hank was married to Frances Welches on August 12, 1950. Hank was a Veteran of the US Army, 160th Engineers, serving during WW II and earned 2 Purple Hearts. He was so proud to have served his Country and was member of American Legion Post #207. Hank retired from Wonder Bread Bakery as a maintenance man. Hank loved his Cubs and enjoyed playing baseball when he was young. He had a soft spot in his heart for kids. Wherever he lived, he would sit on his porch swing and all the neighborhood kids would just flock to him to talk and sing songs. They all called him "Grandpa". His family was his life. He was the greatest Dad & Grandfather ever. Hank always had a way to make you laugh and will be dearly missed by everyone.
Hank is survived by his loving family including his daughter, Margie Hammond, who was also his caregiver & best buddy, grandson, Henry Hammond, granddaughters, Amber Hammond and Andrea Wick, great-grandson, Seth Henry Hammond and a brand new little great granddaughter, Olivia Monet, brother, Ray (Dolly) Manista of Hebron, sister, Vicky (Bill) Huszar of Merrillville, step-daughter, Anna Bedwell of Hawaii, brothers-in-law, George Halik of Whiting, IN and Dick Stempak of Pittsburgh, PA, special friends, Larry Olejniczak and Sheila Hopper and many nieces & nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, Frances, brothers, Joe & Frank, sisters, Evelyn Servin, Mary Ortosky, Hedy Halik and Theresa Stempak and step-son, Floyd "Bud" Sowards. He will always be our Hero, especially to his daughter and grandchildren. In lieu of flowers donations to the family would be appreciated.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held Friday, December 16, 2011 at 10 am at Nativity of Savior Catholic Church, 2949 Willowcreek Rd., Portage, with Rev. Andrew J. Corona celebrating the Mass. Hank will be taken to church Friday at 9:00 am. Cremation will follow the Mass. Visitation will be Thursday from 2-8 pm with a Vigil Service at 6:30 pm at Rees Funeral Home, Olson Chapel, 5341 Central Ave., Portage. For information please call 219-762-3013 or online www.ReesFuneralHomes.com.