Authorities responded to a medical incident and welfare check at a home in Winneconne, Wisconsin, on Friday evening, where they discovered Jeffrey Manke, 57, dead alongside his daughters, Jaelyn, 16, and Lenora, 11. The discovery was made just hours after Manke's nearly two-year divorce battle with their mother, Lindsey Lewandowski, 38, was finalized.
Police have not yet released details regarding the cause of death for Manke or his daughters, citing an ongoing investigation. The Winnebago County Sheriff's Office is leading the inquiry.
Wisconsin Circuit Court records indicated that the marriage was legally dissolved on Friday, with the court ruling it "irretrievably broken." Court documents also show that Manke and Lewandowski were granted joint custody of their daughters and that Manke was ordered to pay child support. The marital home in Oshkosh was awarded to Lewandowski.
Lewandowski has filed a motion to vacate the divorce judgment, with a hearing scheduled for the following Wednesday. Loved ones describe Lewandowski as devastated by the tragedy and are providing support through a crowdfunding campaign established to assist with funeral expenses, mortgage, utilities, and other living costs as she takes time to "process and heal."
The crowdfunding page shared memories of Jaelyn and Lenora, calling them "the kindest and sweetest kids" whose love for God and family left a lasting impression. Lewandowski, who operates a small wooden gifts business from home, is taking time off work. A meal train has also been organized for the family by the Community Church in Oshkosh.
Investigators have stated that the deaths appear to be part of an isolated incident. Anyone with information is urged to contact the Winnebago County Sheriff's Office.
