Benjamin "Ben" Wachowiak

Benjamin “Ben” Wachowiak, age 95 of Oshkosh, passed away on September 7, 2026, surrounded by family in the final days. He was born in Milwaukee on June 16, 1931, to the late Martin and Mary (Maleck) Wachowiak. Ben married Frances Volpe on February 11, 1956, and together they raised three daughters.

Ben is a proud United States Army veteran who served honorably on active duty from 1949 to 1957, including, during the Korean War. As a dedicated member of St. Bernadette Parish, Ben cherished his faith and community. He was known for his unwavering love for his family and his many passions, which included fishing, gardening, baking bread, and capturing many moments through photography. He loved to cook, even surpassing Frances’ famous spaghetti and meatballs.

Ben is survived by his children, Susan (Gilbert) Steffanides; Mary Beth (Jeff) Kampa; son-in-law, Mike Nigro; grandchildren, Katie, Michelle, Dana and Becky; great grandchildren, Ava Jo and Theo; sister, Rose; sister-in-law, Patricia and many nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, Ben was preceded in death by his wife, Frances; daughter, JoAnn Nigro; grandsons, Gilly and Ben, as well as his siblings.

A Mass of Christian Burial for Ben will be at St. Bernadette Catholic Parish on Saturday, September 26, 2026, 8200 W Denver Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53223. Visitation will take place at St. Bernadette from 9:15 a.m. until 10:30 a.m., with Mass beginning at 10:30 a.m. All are welcome to attend a luncheon which will follow Mass and take place at the Elks Lodge, 5555 W. Good Hope Rd., Milwaukee, from 12:00 noon through 2:00 p.m. An Interment with Military Honors will take place at Holy Cross Cemetery Chapel, 7301 W Nash St., Milwaukee, beginning at 2:30 p.m.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the exceptional staff at Gabriel’s Villa for the compassionate care and companionship they provided to Ben during his residency.