Eugene Alex Mantei

Eugene Alex Mantei, 85, of St. Joseph, passed away Wednesday, September 19, 2012 at his home surrounded by his loved ones. A private Celebration of Life Service will be held at 7pm Saturday September 22nd at Starks & Menchinger Chapel, 2650 Niles Road, St. Joseph. Friends may visit from 5pm to 7pm Saturday at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers a memorial donation to the Mantei family may be made. Those wishing to share a memory online may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com. Gene was born on April 9, 1927 in St. Joseph to Adolph and Olga (Wichner) Mantei. After school Gene joined the United States Army and served his country until 1948. He met the love of his life, Donna (Kull) and married her in 1949. Gene had many great work experiences from restaurant and grocery store owner to his love for security, where many friends and colleagues know him best. A handy man with a great talent for woodworking including amazing custom made poker tables; Gene even built his own home. He also loved to play softball and the church league pitcher was feared by many teams. Number one though was his family, spoiling the grandchildren with Skittles to making sure he was there for all of his children and grandchildren, in any way they needed. He will be missed by everyone who knew his friendly smile. Gene is survived by his children, Randy Mantei of Sawyer; Lora Kolberg of St. Joseph; Tod (Debbie) Mantei of Sawyer; Amee Mantei of St. Joseph; and Holly Mantei of Lexington, South Carolina; 14 grandchildren; 14 great grandchildren and 1 great-great grandchild. Eugene was preceded in death by his wife; a son; his parents; 5 brothers and 4 sisters.