Elio Mancini

Portland, Maine Elio Mancini, 100, passed away, at home, on January 1, 2025, in Portland, Maine. Born on September 3, 1924, in Portland, he was the beloved son of Santo Mancini and Luisa Cereste. Elio grew up in Portland, attending local schools, before being drafted into the United States Army on April 5, 1943. He served his country honorably during World War II and was discharged on January 19, 1946. Following his service, he remained committed to his country as a member of the National Guard. In the early 1950s, Elio worked in Washington, D.C., for the U.S. Passport Division before returning to Maine to begin a long and dedicated career as a truck driver for Hannaford in 1953. Over his 35 years with the company, he earned numerous accolades, including the prestigious 2,000,000 Mile Driving Safety Award. He retired from Hannaford in 1987. In 1961, Elio married Carmela Paparello in Fondi, Italy. Their marriage of 49 years was a testament to their deep love and partnership. In 1999, encouraged by his daughter, Elio embarked on a lifelong desire to complete his high school education, proudly earning his diploma on June 20, 2002, at the age of 77. Elio’s life was filled with joy and activity. He loved playing pool, bowling, golf, bocce ball, and dancing, and he cherished his Italian heritage. He was a lifetime member of the Italian Heritage Center, the South Portland VFW Post 832, and the Knights of Columbus Cheverus Council, South Portland. A devout Catholic, he was also a lifetime communicant of St. Peter’s Church, where he loved working at the annual bazaar. His greatest joy; however, was spending time with his family and especially watching his grandson Fausto grow up. Elio is survived by his loving daughter, Maria Donatelli of Portland and Bernie Capaldi of Westbrook; his grandson, Fausto Donatelli, and his wife, Kristine Donatelli, along with his great grandson, Karlo Donatelli; and his nephew, Stewart Charlton. He also leaves behind several nieces and nephews in Italy, and some very close life long friends. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his devoted wife, Carmela, and his siblings, Quirino Mancini, Mario Mancini, and Elena Charlton. Visitation will be held from 2 to 4PM on Sunday January 12th, at the A.T. Hutchins Funeral Home, 660 Brighton Avenue, Portland. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 AM on Monday, January 13th, at St. Peter’s Church, 72 Federal Street, Portland, with interment to follow at Calvary Cemetery.

Elio Mancini

September 3, 1924 - January 1, 2025

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