RIP, Andy Mantha

A true gentleman and a hockey legend from his playing days of many years ago with the Soo Greyhounds, Andy Mantha has passed away at age 94.

After retirement from the game, Andy would become a long-time fixture on Greyhound hockey broadcasts as a commentator alongside legendary CKCY Radio play by play man Harry Wolfe.

Andy was a man with a kind disposition and quiet, albeit friendly ways.

I worked at CKCY for many of the years that Andy was on Greyhound radio broadcasts as Harry’s sidekick. And Andy was always quick to be nice to, in this case, the young broadcaster that I was after getting my start at CKCY in 1975.

Rest in peace, good sir.

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Following is Andy’s obituary that was posted today.

Andy passed away Monday, December 07, 2020. Predeceased by his wife, Irene and daughter Joanne Mantha-McConnell. Survived by sons Mark (Kathleen), John (Leanne), and sisters Irene Kozlo and Sally Boudreau. Proud poppa to Laura and Justin McConnell, Claire and Bradley Mantha, and Lauren Galeana. Father-in-law of Don McConnell.

Andy was born in North Bay and made Sault Ste. Marie his home. He was a member of the Soo Greyhounds and played in one of the first games in Sault Memorial Gardens when it opened in 1949. He provided colour commentary on the radio broadcast of the junior Greyhounds for many years and was a proud and intensely loyal follower and season ticket holder of the Greyhounds before and after his association with the radio broadcasts.  

Andy served on the Parks and Recreation committee with the city for a number of years and was actively involved in the community as a Kiwanis member, Knight of Columbus member and A.C.T.

An avid golfer and member on the board at the Sault Golf and Country Club, he shot his age, at 81, which all golfers know is a rare and exceptional feat.  Many fond memories of playing golf with his sons and grandson. His other passion was cross country skiing which he shared with his entire family.  

He lived on Moluch St. in Sault Ste. Marie for 60+ years with a very tight-knit and loving neighborhood.

Funeral mass to be celebrated from Our Lady of Good Counsel Church on Friday December 11, 2020 at 11am. Rev. Paul Conway officiating. Maximum capacity 60 people, masks required.  In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions payable by cheque or online to ARCH would be appreciated.  Special thanks to the FJ Davey Home staff – Driftwood for their support and communication during a pandemic. They were truly a second home and family to Andy.  Please visit Arthur Funeral Home website obituaries to leave memories and condolences as a keepsake for the family.

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