Council Holds Moment of Silence for Former Chief McManus

By Adam Swift

The Town Council began its meeting Tuesday night with a moment of silence for former Police Chief Michael McManus, who died on Thursday, Dec. 22 at the age of 80.

“He joined the Winthrop Police Department as a reserve officer in October of 1966 and became a permanent officer in February of 1968,” said Council President James Letterie. “He became a sergeant in June of 1983 and served in that position until his subsequent promotion to lieutenant in March of 1988.”

McManus served as the town’s acting chief twice before becoming the permanent police chief in December of 2000.

“Chief McManus was a gentleman to many new recruits as they came on the job as new reserves or officers,” said Letterie. “He served honorably for 38 years, protecting and educating the citizens of Winthrop, and for that, we thank him and his family for their support and sacrifice.”

McManus is survived by his wife, Fran, and his children, Maureen, Debby, Michael, Paula, Thomas, Sherry, Joseph, and Kim, and 15 grandchildren.