Funeral services for Dennis N. Manthei, 72, of Mansfield, Louisiana, will be held Wednesday, September 10, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. at Shafer Funeral Home in Lufkin with Bro. John Newman officiating. Interment will follow at Newman Cemetery.

           Mr. Manthei was born on August 21, 1953, in Bryan, Texas, to the late Paul Emil Manthei and Lydia Elizabeth Manthei, and died Friday, September 5, 2025, in Tyler.

           Dennis, also known as Penguin to some, grew up in East Texas and moved to Northwest Louisiana where he continued to enjoy life in the outdoors hunting, fishing, and riding his Harley. His humor and strong willed nature spawned many memories and stories his friends and family love to share. Dennis built custom homes for many during his career as a contractor. He was proud to have the honor of restoring and rebuilding the second oldest courthouse in Louisiana. His christian faith and love of bass fishing led him to start and lead the Fishers of Men Northwest LA division for a number of years. He recently moved back to East Texas to be near family and friends where he listened to music and enjoyed long walks outdoors.

            Mr. Manthei is survived by his daughter and son-in-law, Layla and James Santiago of Flint, TX; son, Jason Manthei of El Dorado, AR; grandson, Landon Santiago of Flint, TX; sister and brother-in-law, Elaine and Dan Jobsky of Mentor, OH; brother and sister-in-law, Larry and Sharon Manthei of Winnfield, LA; sister and brother-in-law, Gail and Jimmy McCormick of Fate, TX; along with numerous nieces and nephews.

          He was preceded in death by his parents.

          Pallbearers will be James Santiago, Landon Santiago, Jack Greene, Chester Squyres, David Crocker, and Kenneth Lee.

          Honorary pallbearers will be Glen Freeman and Joe Leone.

          In lieu of flowers please mail donations to Newman Cemetery Association 689 Pamela Lane Lufkin, TX 75904 in remembrance of Dennis Manthei.

          Visitation will be held from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., Wednesday, September 10, 2025, at Shafer Funeral Home, prior to the service.

          Shafer Funeral Home, Lufkin directors.