[Congressional Record Volume 162, Number 120 (Monday, July 25, 2016)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1163]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               IN HONOR OF THE LIFE OF MANUEL G. SEMPELES

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. BARBARA COMSTOCK

                              of virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, July 25, 2016

  Mrs. COMSTOCK. Mr. Speaker, I rise to acknowledge and remember the 
life of Manuel ``Manny'' Sempeles, a notable member of the Winchester 
community who sadly passed away in May of 2015. I knew Manny personally 
and can attest to his humor, his selfless nature, and his ability to 
light up every room into which he walked. Manny was born in 1931 in 
Winchester and following his education at Handley High School, he 
selflessly decided to serve his country and enlisted in the United 
States Military where he was posted to Germany between 1952 and 1954. 
It was during this time that he proved both his courage and his valor 
during the Korean War and was promoted to the rank of Private First 
Class as part of the 101st Airborne Division. Upon his return, he 
decided to complete his education at Virginia University and the 
University of Richmond where he continued to nurture his passion for 
football. It was at this point Manny decided to shift from serving his 
country to serving his community.
  Mr. Sempeles led a distinguished career through his membership and 
eventual presidency of the local parish council. He further acted as a 
member for the Virgin Mary Greek Orthodox Church as well as serving on 
the Winchester Star Leadership Committee. Manny volunteered as a coach 
at James Wood and Handley High School so as to pass his passion for 
football onto others. His selflessness is only too apparent through his 
exemplary contributions and participation in community matters and I 
know his compassion will be sorely missed by all who knew him.
  Beyond his civil duties, Manny was a loving husband to his wife 
Florine with whom he shared a restaurant business, beginning with their 
first establishment ``The Open Hearth''. They celebrated over 57 years 
of loving marriage together. In addition to Florine, Manny leaves 
behind three daughters: Tina, Andrea and Stephanie, as well as two sons 
George and Michael, all of whom are now married with children of their 
own, and even grandchildren. Through them, I'm sure, his values and 
legacy will be assured. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me 
in honoring the life of Manuel Sempeles.

                          ____________________