Jean Mangels

Jean Mangels passed away on March 16, 2017 in Healthcare at Givens Highland Farms in Black Mountain after a brief illness.  

Born on Sept. 19, 1919 in Philadelphia to two classical musicians, Jean had a lovely soprano voice, and loved chamber music. Her older brother, William Chute, was a professional musician. 

Though she never went to college, Jean had a sharp wit, intellect and fund of knowledge which she kept honed with voracious reading, bridge playing, and crosswords right up until the end of her life. She wrote short stories and biographical vignettes.  Multi-talented, she was a dress designer, sewed all her children's clothes, and excelled in all types of needlework.  She was an actress, an award winning flower arranger, and gardener. 

During 'The War' Jean worked as a secretary and in 1944 married Alfred Mangels, who was as retiring a person as she was outgoing.  Al worked as an architectural designer for the Atlantic Refining Company.  As their two daughters were entering grade school Jean and Al built a lovely home in Moylan-Rose Valley, PA where they stayed until 1972 when Al's employer became the Atlantic Richfield Company and required transfer to Los Angeles. Jean and Al loved the sea, so they were thrilled to find a house overlooking the Pacific in Rancho Palos Verdes.  There they enjoyed thirty years with their orange tree, flowers, and whale watching. 

After Alfred's death Jean returned east in 2008 moving to Highland Farms, where she made good friends. Living in Healthcare for the past two years, she learned to accept help with the most basic activities.  She discovered, too, that she was lovable even as an invalid.  The outpourings of affection and love shown by the Healthcare staff will not be forgotten by her family.

Jean is survived by her daughter Barbara Mangels formerly of San Pedro CA and now of Black Mountain, and by daughter Karen and her husband Adlai Boyd of Montreat.  Also surviving are her grandson Peter Salvucci, currently in Istanbul, Turkey and great-granddaughter Trista Salvucci of Montreat.  Her two nieces Lauren Baker (Paul) of Lafayette, LA, and Charlotte DeButts (Thomas) of Alexandria, VA will miss Aunt Jean's stories. 

Since Jean did not desire a religious memorial service, the family will sponsor a memorial concert in the future.  Those desiring to make a
gift in her memory are encouraged to contribute to the Givens-Highland Farms Residents Assistance Ministry. Contributions can be mailed to Givens Development, 2360 Sweeten Creek Road, Asheville, NC 28803.

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