Esta K. Manthos

Esta K. (Kokiernak) Manthos, 101, formerly of Clarence Street in Springfield, passed away on October 16, 2016. She was born in Webster, MA, daughter of the late Andrew and Agnes (Niemiec) Kokiernak. Esta graduated from Bartlett High School with honors, attended Post School of Business and was a member of St. George Greek Orthodox Cathedral in Springfield, MA. Esta was a member of the Women’s International Motorcycle Association, Laughing Indian Riders Club, MassMutual Quarter Century Club and a Corporator of the Springfield Library and Museums Association. She was employed by the Hartford Ordnance District and during World War II, was reassigned to the Springfield Ordnance District. She was a member of the Board of Examiners of the Springfield Armory. After World War II, she joined MassMutual and retired after 33 years as an underwriter. She was also Vice President of Solar Metal Corporation. Esta and her late husband, Charles, founded the Indian Motocycle Museum and became the curators, being totally involved in the preservation of the history of this world famous motorcycle that had only been made in Springfield from 1901-1953 when manufacturing ceased. She was a friend to most of the former National Champions who rode the Indian Motocycle. Many are now inductees in the Hall of Fame of the museum. She is survived by several nieces. She was predeceased by her husband Charles, who passed away in 1996. Esta’s services were private. Donations may be made to the Charles & Esta Manthos Fund for Preservation of Indian Motocycle History, Springfield Museums, 21 Edwards Street, Springfield, MA 01103 and to the Shriner’s Hospital for Children, 516 Carew Street, Springfield, MA 01104. Sampson’s Chapel of the Acres was entrusted with the arrangements.