Chester "Chet" Raymond Mantey Jr

Chester Raymond Mantey Jr. ("Chet") of Wind Lake, Town of Norway, WI, went to his eternal home on February 6, 2025. He peacefully passed away at his home, surrounded by his loving family and friends, who remained by his side continuously during the week prior to his passing. Chet was born on August 29, 1945, in Martinsburg, West Virginia, where his father was stationed during World War II.

Chet is survived by his children, Shelley Mayer (Ron Baribeau), Stephen Mantey (Megan), and Amy McCarthy (Michael). He is further survived by his brother, William Buttke (RoseAnn); his grandchildren, Carrin Gunderson (Brock Rosendale), Sara Ehlers (Dr. Erik Ehlers), Peter Mayer (Kendal Dorn); and his great-granddaughter, June Ehlers.

Chet leaves behind his neighbor, caregiver, and best friend, Kim Schendel, whom he affectionately referred to as his “guardian angel”; best friend and caregiver, Hannah Underly; neighbor, trusted friend, and personal “handyman and groundskeeper,” John Schendel; and neighbors and friends, Kaitlyn Schendel and Tanner Cimbalnik, along with the entire Schendel family. He is also survived by the mother of his children, Eileen (Mantey) Brandt; numerous brothers- and sisters-in-law; nieces; nephews; friends; and his beloved dog, Max.

Chet was preceded in death by his parents, Dr. Chester Mantey Sr. and Johanna Mantey (née Campbell); cousins, Carol and Gene Kuehn; and his companion, Kathleen Schalk. 

Chet grew up in Wind Lake, Wisconsin, with his parents and grandparents, who affectionately called him "Mickey." He graduated from Muskego High School in 1965. Chet cherished many fond memories with his close friends, Skip and Rita, whom he lovingly referred to as the "Three Musketeers."

A dedicated and hardworking man, Chet retired from Wisconsin Electric Power Company (affectionately known as “Mother WEPCO,” now WE Energies) after 37 years of service as a substation electrician and supervisor. Outside of his career, Chet was a true sports enthusiast with an unwavering love for baseball, especially his beloved Milwaukee Brewers, and a lifelong devotion to the Green Bay Packers.

Chet had a taste for the finer things in life, including watching QVC and HSN. He frequently purchased items for himself, his family, and his friends. He had a deep love for motorcycles, particularly Harley-Davidsons, of which he proudly owned two during his lifetime. You could often find him taking a “trot” around Wind Lake on his Harley, stopping at various local taverns to enjoy an ice-cold beer and some conversation. Chet also enjoyed a Miller High Life while grilling his favorite sausages—brats, Italians, and Hungarians—and superior, high-quality steak that he often bought at Rupena's. Chet loved making his "famous" chili, which included everything but the kitchen sink—and the spicier, the better, was his motto!

Those who knew Chet best will fondly remember his "Chetisms," the “look,” and his many stories about the past. He often invited visitors to “take a seat” and “have conversation,” signaling the start of one of his lengthy tales.

Chet loved his family and close friends, but he also cherished his quiet alone time. He will be lovingly remembered as the “Caretaker” of the home he affectionately called “The Homestead,” built in 1937 by his grandparents in Wind Lake, WI. In his retired years, he was known to “putter” around in the basement and barn and enjoyed mowing the lawn of “The Homestead” on his John Deere tractor, wearing a straw hat with a beer in hand. Chet was also known for his remarkable “ADT” skills that kept 7 Mile Road safe and secure.

The family would like to express their sincere gratitude to the EMTs and firefighters at the Wind Lake Paramedic/Fire Department, affectionately known as "Wind Lake's Finest," for always being there for Chet when he needed them most.

The family would also like to thank the staff at Heartland Hospice for their care and compassion over the past two-plus years.

Dad, as your son and daughters, we will forever remember how you often told us, "You are a lucky man, son," and "You are a lucky woman, my daughters." We know it to be true because you were our Daddy. Rest in eternal love and peace, free of pain, and dance with the angels in heaven, with new, strong legs.

Chet’s presence will be deeply missed, but his legacy of love, laughter, and loyalty will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. A celebration of life will be held on February 28, 2025, at Max A. Sass & Sons in Franklin, Wisconsin. The family will be present for visitors from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., with the service commencing at 6 p.m. It will be officiated by Pastor Chad Kogutkiewicz. Chet was a lifelong member of St. Claire’s Catholic Church and the family will hold a private funeral Mass to honor him and his life.

Well done, GOOD & FAITHFUL SERVANT: 

"Thou hast been faithful over a few things; I will make thee ruler over many things: Enter thou into the joy of thy lord."   —Matthew 25:23