George Menasco

George Tuttle Menasco, 96, passed away peacefully on Friday, June 7, 2013 in Watsonville, CA.
George was born on September 13, 1916, in Watsonville, Ca. to parents Sid and Jennie (Hannaford) Menasco. He attended Mintie White Grammar School through 5th grade; then went on to Montezuma School for Boys in Los Gatos; until the end of his sophomore year, returning to Watsonville High School where he played football, starred in track and graduated in 1935. He graduated from Pomona College with a business degree in 1939, then on to Armstrong Business College in Berkeley for further studies graduating in 1941.
George proudly served in the US Army during World War II. Following the war he returned to his home in the Pajaro Valley, a place he felt was a true honor to call home. He became President of the Charles Ford Company in 1949; the 3rd generation of Menasco's to hold this position; retiring in 1992. Watsonville honored George as Man of the Year that same year. He was a member of the American Legion Post 121, Watsonville Elks Lodge BPOE 1300, Watsonville Rotary Club and served as secretary of ASP for 30 years.
George was a very humble man. He lived with principles including respect, fairness and dignity. There must be a void in the house in which he has lived, in the bosom of the family where he has spent his best.
George was preceded in death by his wife Earline Menasco and granddaughter Jennifer Menasco. He is survived by his two children, Georgeann Menasco of Watsonville and Sidney Menasco. Four grandchildren, Robert Ditlevsen ( Charisse ), Don Ditlevsen ( Jill ), Heidi Murphy ( Erik Redding ), Alexis Menasco, 9 great grandchildren and his sister in law, Alberta Spates.
The family will be forever grateful to the loving, dignified care George received from his caregivers who quickly became part of our family. A special thanks to Heartland Hospice and Dr. Robert Weber.
At his request, there will be no services. Arrangements are under the direction of Patrick and Debra Molina Carroll at Ave Maria Memorial Chapel. Donations may be made to Ronald McDonald House, 520 Sand Hill Road, Palo Alto, CA 94304.