MANDIGO, Grace Florence

Today's News-Herald, Lake Havasu City, AZ - Posted: Wednesday, November 7, 2012 - Grace Florence Mandigo passed away Oct. 28, 2012 in Lake Havasu City, at the age of 84. Grace was born Nov. 28, 1927 in New York City, N.Y. to John and Pauline Lorina. Grace has been performing in musicals since she was a child. The man who taught her to dance was Fred Astair’s understudy on Broadway. As an adult she sang with a Navy Combo band, and choreographed and directed musicals for a junior high and high school in San Diego. The production of “The Generation Gap” was so well received that the USO invited the show to be performed for the service men. In 1985 Grace moved to Lake Havasu City and performed with the Dixie Belles for several years, appeared as a featured singer for Monte Cleeson/Kenny Adams Productions, performed several shows for Havasu Lights Opera and in numerous shows throughout the city. In 1988, she directed her first serious comedy mystery play, “Who Needs A Waltz,” for Drury Lane Productions. This was new for her and because of her theater background, she was able to put her tongue in cheek mystery through its paces. Grace also was a member of Mt. Olive Lutheran Church, Lake Havasu Yacht Club and The Red Hats. Grace is survived by her husband of 20 years, Alfred Mandigo, of Lake Havasu City; sons, John Kramer, of San Diego, Calif., Steven Kramer, of San Diego, Calif. and Richard Kramer, of Mariposa, Calif.; daughter, Stephanie Wilshusen, of Lemon Grove, Calif; and six grandchildren. Services will take place at Mt. Olive Lutheran Church Nov. 10, at 10 a.m. with Pastor James Price officiating. A reception will follow the services at the Yacht Club 631 London Bridge Road Lake Havasu City, AZ 86403. Donations can be made in Grace’s name to Mt. Olive Lutheran Church, 2170 Havasupai Blvd., Lake Havasu City, AZ 86403. Thoughts and condolences can be sent to Grace’s family at www.lietz-frazefuneralhome.com.