He was named emeritus professor of American literature in 1978 when he retired, and was given an honorary doctor of letters degree in 1980. Though he was prolific, Mr. Mangione found that getting words down on paper was painful. Mr. Mangione, who once said he considered himself an observer of life, rather than a participant, enjoyed consistent success as a novelist and social historian. Mount Allegro was reprinted five times and became required reading in some college and high school courses. He is survived by his wife, Patricia Mangione, a brother and two sisters.
Services are private.