John Mangattu Cherian

John M. Cherian, endearingly called Johncy, was born into the Mangat family in Olassa, Kottayam, as the eldest son of Mr. C. John Mathai and Mrs. Thankamma Mathai in 1944. As a child, he got the privilege of going to a kindergarten, as his mother had started the first kindergarten in Alleppey, Kerala. As a primary student, he was fortunate to be taught by his grandmother and to be influenced by his grandfather too, who was the headmaster of a school in Olassa. He continued his schooling in C.M.S. High School, Kottayam.

Johncy’s father, a faithful follower of Jesus Christ who had dedicated his life to serving God, was the manager of C.M.S. Press, Kottayam; and his mother was the editor of Balamithram, the first children's magazine in Malayalam. Thus, he was introduced early in life to the importance of a disciplined life of simplicity. In Kottayam he was a member of the CSI Cathedral Choir and that laid the foundation of his love for church music.

After pre-university, Johncy joined the TKM College of Engineering, Kollam and graduated in Civil Engineering. Later he did his post-graduation in Soil Mechanics and Foundation Engineering, which he completed as the first rank holder from Annamalai University. At the young age of 21 years, Johncy started as a lecturer in the same college where he was adored by his colleagues and students.

In 1971, Johncy married Sukki, a god given companion for life and they turned out to be an ideal couple. Vinay and Vijay joined them and later Salini and Lisa and Josh, Jessy, Jackson, and Jaya joined this circle of love.

In 1986, Johncy took up the challenge of starting another chapter in his life by moving over to Boston. He worked as a project engineer for the City of Revere till his retirement in 2014. Apart from his office duties, what he enjoyed was being a member of the Boston Congregation and an active member of the church choir and the Choristers too. As a senior member, he was fortunate to see the congregation growing under the leadership of 12 Achens, each of whom he held close to his heart. Active involvement with church activities proved to be a blessing for the whole family.

As the eldest among his cousins, and also among his siblings, with two brothers and sisters, Johncy has been a beacon of light; a role model in every way. Above all, he is endowed with all the noble virtues of love, kindness, gentleness, empathy, and....... Of course, he has left footprints for all of us to emulate.

Instead of sending flowers, you may choose to make a donation in tribute to his enduring dedication to innovation, mentorship, and lifelong learning. Your contribution will support FIRST robotics programs, empowering the next generation of leaders in technology and business.  Donations can be made using this link:  https://square.link/u/CSdjFTHs

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of John Mangattu Cherian, please visit our floral store.