H. J. McManus
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Henry Joseph (Joe) McManus was born in St. Thomas, Ontario on July 9, 1907. Joe moved to London, Ontario as a young man and started several companies such as McManus Petroleums, Imperialle Fuels, Red Star Gasoline, Sterling Fuels, Arrow Petroleum & McManus Motors. Over the years he also purchased several major businesses such as Husband Transport, Hotel London & the Stork Club in Port Stanley, Ontario.
Joe was one of the most prominent Catholic laymen in the London diocese and for his work and contributions on behalf of the church he was invested as a Knight of the Magistral Cross of the Sovereign Order of Malta in 1958. His importance to Southwestern Ontario was recognized by his inclusion in the London Business Hall of Fame and a monument erected to honor London's 51 most prominent people. The Grand Theater's McManus theater and Joe McManus Canoeing & Rowing facility both carry his name. Tragically Joe died on January 7, 1976 as the result of an automobile accident that occurred on December 12, 1975 which also claimed the life of his wife, Bessie.
