A father and his two young daughters were found dead in his Winneconne, Wisconsin home on Friday evening, just hours after the finalization of his divorce from their mother. Police were called to the residence of Jeffrey Manke, 57, for a welfare check around 7 p.m., according to the Winneconne Police Department.
Manke was discovered deceased along with his daughters, 16-year-old Jaelyn and 11-year-old Lenora. The cause of their deaths has not yet been disclosed by authorities.
The discovery followed the conclusion of a divorce proceeding between Manke and his wife, Lindsey Lewandowski, 38, which had been ongoing for nearly two years. Wisconsin Circuit Court records indicate the marriage was legally dissolved on Friday, with the court ruling it was "irretrievably broken."
Under the divorce settlement, Manke and Lewandowski were granted joint custody of their daughters, and Manke was ordered to pay child support. Lewandowski was awarded the couple's marital home located in nearby Oshkosh.
Lindsey Lewandowski has filed a motion to vacate the divorce judgment, and a hearing is scheduled for the following Wednesday.
Investigators have stated that the deaths are part of an isolated incident, but have not provided further details, citing an ongoing investigation. The Winnebago County Sheriff's Office is leading the inquiry.
A memorial fund has been established on the GiveSendGo platform to assist Lewandowski with funeral costs, mortgage payments, utility bills, and other living expenses as she takes time to grieve. The crowdfunder's description remembered Jaelyn and Lenora as "the kindest and sweetest kids" whose love for God and family left a lasting impression.
Lewandowski, who operates a small wooden gifts business from her home, is reportedly taking time off work. She has been in a long-term relationship with a new partner, and loved ones say the family is devastated by the tragedy.
The Community Church in Oshkosh has organized a meal train to support the Lewandowski family.
