Josephine Rose Cvopa

Josephine grew up in Chicago and always excelled in school. She ultimately attended the University of Illinois, where she earned the degree of RPh. She also met her first husband, Charles M. Manak, during her pharmacy studies. They worked together as pharmacists for many years, and owned and operated their own drug store in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Together they had four children, Ralph, Chuck, Annemarie and John. She encouraged her children to explore and try new things, which led to their interests in music, art and exploring the outdoors. Josephine was widowed in 1993. She was subsequently reunited with another acquaintance from her days at pharmacy school, John J. Cvopa. They were married and enjoyed a life together that included travel, church activities, volunteering and, most fondly, being grandparents. She was again widowed in 2019.

Josephine enjoyed gardening and cooking for family and friends. Thursday was pasta night, which often meant extra chairs around the table. Josephine enjoyed helping others, particularly those with special needs or who were less fortunate in other ways. And while much of her memory and ability to think was taken from her toward the end of her life, she never lost her sense of love and her sense of humor.

Josephine is survived by her children, Ralph [Sara Carter] Manak, Chuck (Norma) Manak, Annemarie Spencer, and John (Maria) Manak; grandchildren, Michael Spencer, Austin Manak, Rachel (Jay) Jump, Leah Manak, Justin and Jacob Manak; great grandchildren Marcus and Jesse Jump; sister, Rosemary Salvione and five nieces and nephews.

Please consider giving to the Alzheimer’s Association and Hospice of the Valley (Phoenix, Arizona) in memory of Josephine.

It’s hard to forget someone who gave us so much to remember.