Lester Elza Manteau

Honoring the life of Lester Elza Manteau, who passed away on October 25, 2024, at the age of 75. The 7th of 8 children born to Eldred and Roberta, Lester had a modest upbringing near Flushing, OH. He attended high school in Tom’s River, NJ and joined the Air Force shortly after. He met Ellen, his future wife, on a softball field at Clark Air Force Base in the Philippines. Lester was coaching, Ellen was playing, and together they shared 51 years of marriage until her passing. In addition to the Philippines, Lester served in Korea, Vietnam, and stateside. 

After their military service, Lester and Ellen settled in Waukesha, WI, where they welcomed their sons Eric and Carl. While balancing work, family, and night school, Lester earned a degree from the Milwaukee School of Engineering, leading to roles with Pillar, Rexnord, and P&H before pivoting into financial planning and office administration. 

A passionate craftsman, Lester created thousands of wood, leather, bead, and paper items, which he generously gifted to others. He was also dedicated to the Boy Scouts and the YMCA Guides, leading over 500 ceremonies in which he shared skills and wisdom with countless families. Lester rarely spoke his emotions; he demonstrated them by always showing up and answering the call to fill whatever role was needed. He is a legend and will be dearly missed. 

Lester is survived by his sons, Eric & Carl, their wives Sondra & Nikita, and four grandchildren, Zoe, Ziva, Ezekiel, and Dhanya. A celebration of his life will be announced in the new year. 

Randle-Dable-Brisk Funeral Home, Crematory and Preplanning Services is honored to serve the family. For further information, please call the funeral home at 262-547-4035 or visit our website at www.randledable.com to leave the family an online tribute message.