Frances Marie Wachowiak

Frances Marie Wachowiak, 89 of Milwaukee, passed away on December 29, 2024. She was born on June 18, 1935 in Milwaukee to the late Peter and Mary (Caravella) Volpe.

Frances was united in marriage to Benjamin Wachowiak February 11, 1956, and together they raised three daughters. The couple shared a love of traveling and enjoyed visiting friends and family, creating unforgettable memories along the way.

Frances first worked in Human Resources at CECO and later at Milwaukee Gear, where she made lifelong friends.

Frances will be remembered for the wonderful memories she created. She was known for her vibrant social life and her passion for engaging with loved ones. She enjoyed playing tennis and card games with her friends, and her talent for making candy and decorating cakes brought delight to many occasions.

Frances is survived by her devoted husband of 68 years, Benjamin Wachowiak; children, Susan (Gilbert) Steffanides, Mary Beth (Jeff) Kampa, JoAnn (Mike) Nigro; grandchildren, Katie, Michelle, Dana, Ben and Becky; great granddaughter, Ava Jo; and sister Patricia. She is also survived by her sister-in-law, Rose, and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, Frances was preceded in death by her grandson, Gilly; sisters, Carmella, Josephine, Betty, Mary, Margie and brother Angelo.

The family would like to thank the staff at Bethel Home for the loving care they provided to Frances, especially the nursing staff. Thank you also to the Ascera Care Hospice staff for the care and additional assistance they provided to Frances and her family.

To honor Frances, a celebration of life will be held on February 8, 2025 at the St. Bernadette Catholic Parish- 8200 West Denver Ave., Milwaukee, WI 53223. All are invited to join the family for a gathering and visitation with the family at St. Bernadette’s from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. with a Mass of Christian Burial beginning at 11 a.m. All are invited to attend a luncheon following the mass, held at the Elks Club at 5555 Good Hope Road, Milwaukee.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Frances’ name to Bethel Home, 225 N. Eagle Street, Oshkosh, WI 54902.

Frances will be laid to rest at the Holy Cross Catholic Cemetery on 7301 W. Nash St., Milwaukee, WI.