A Waterford business owner has been found dead in a house fire

Karleski, 65, was found dead March 8 as firefighters battled a house fire in the 30900 block of Prospect Drive west of Fox River.

Authorities have released Karleski’s identity, but no other information related to his death has been released.

The Racine County Fire Investigation Task Force could not be reached for comment on the incident.

The Racine County Medical Examiner’s Office declined to comment on preliminary autopsy findings and other information, including when and where Carleski is believed to have died.

Family members said they suspected Carleski of accidentally starting the fire by carelessly handling smoking materials.

According to his sister, Rebecca Managa, Carleski was a heavy smoker and often fell asleep while smoking in his favorite chair.

The carpet under the chair was marked with cigarette burns, Managa said.

“I’d bet money on that happening,” she said.

In the year Firefighters were dispatched to the home shortly after 10 a.m. on March 8 after callers to 911 reported heavy smoke coming from the building.

After working to get the fire under control, they found Carleski dead inside the house.

Authorities have not said if he died as a result of the fire or before the fire started.

Carleski was the owner of Care and Comfort Adult Family Home, a home for senior citizens at 6109 E. Wind Lake Road in Dover Township.

His sister described Karleskin as hardworking and generous.

According to his obituary, he was born in Highland Park, Illinois, and enjoyed riding Harley-Davidson motorcycles at a young age.

His wife, Lynn Carleski, died three years ago.

A memorial gathering and prayer service is planned for March 25 from 2-3pm at The Venue, 2645 Main St., East Troy.