Robert C. Manchester

Robert C. Manchester (“Bob”) 84,of Elmira, New York
passed away on Thursday, December 7, 2023,
surrounded by his loving and devoted family. Robert was predeceased by his parents, Gerald O. Jr. and
Jessie B. Manchester; sister Bonnie Jo Patten (Edward); sister-in-law Elaine Manchester;
sister-in-law Nancy Kent; nephew Michael Manchester.
Robert is survived by his beloved wife of 63 years, Nora (Kent) Manchester; brother Gerald O.
Manchester III (Linda VanNess) of Elmira; children, Ann M. DeRigge of Elmira; Robert C. Manchester Jr.
of Elmira; Andrew G. Manchester (Linda) of Saranac Lake NY; sister-in-law Mary Zubriski of Elmira; sister-
in-law Marjorie Johnston (Michael) of Elmira; grandchildren, Jennifer Tiffany (Jason); Katie DeRigge;
Sarah DeRigge-Morgan (Michael); five great grandchildren, Mackenzie, Haileah, Chloe, Jason Jr., and
Lainey; numerous nieces and nephews.
Bob graduated from Southside High School in 1957. Upon graduating, he entered the United States Air
Force where he spent time working at the Pentagon. After his years of service, Bob started work for the
Elmira Star-Gazette as a machinist. He then joined his father and brother in the family owned business,
Manchester Body Shop. Bob and his brother continued the business for over 40 years. In 1973, the
Porsche factory chose Manchester Body Shop to complete the finish work on legendary Peter Gregg’s
#59 can-am sports car for a race at Watkins Glen.
Bob was an avid hunter, fisherman and had a passion for English motorcycles. He enjoyed Elk hunting
trips to Colorado with his brother and friends. He was a custom car enthusiast and NASCAR fan. He
enjoyed watching NASCAR with his beloved dog Clifford and took great pride in his lawn work. Bob was
best known for baking his pizzelle cookies and loved spending time with his family. Even until the end,
he was committed to his morning workouts at the gym and meeting up with close friends after for
coffee. Bob will be sorely missed by all.
The family would like to thank CareFirst for the compassionate hospice care given to Bob in his final
weeks. Special thanks to his nurses Jenny and Jamie for their excellent care.

Family and friends are invited to Olthof Funeral Home,
1050 Pennsylvania Ave, Elmira, NY 14904,
on Thursday, December 14, 2023, from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM.

Donations can be made to CareFirst:
3805 Meads Creek Rd.
Painted Post, NY 14870
www.carefirstny.org