Alina Sedlak

Alina Białobrzeska Sedlak February 9, 1932 – August 28, 2026 Alina Białobrzeska Sedlak was born to Eternal Life on August 28, 2026 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin at the age of 94, surrounded by loving family. Alina was born in a village near Ostrołeka, Poland on February 9, 1932, to Piotr and Jadwiga (née Długołęcka) Białobrzeski. One of nine children, she was only seven when World War II broke out in Poland. As a child, she endured the hardships of war and the devastating loss of five of her siblings. In 1949, Alina and her family emigrated to America. Soon after arriving, she felt called to religious life and entered the Felician order, where she served faithfully for seven years. After leaving the convent, she met John Sedlak. They were married at the Basilica of St. Josaphat and built a loving home together, raising four children. Alina left an indelible mark on all who knew her. She fostered a deep devotion to Polish heritage, while embracing America with equal pride. She cherished the 4th of July, cheered on the Green Bay Packers, and had a special fondness for Milwaukee's own Harley-Davidson. Alina was often seen in the stands cheering for family during the many swim meets, football games, soccer games, and basketball games played by her children and grandchildren. She adored watching her family perform with the Mazur, Polish National Alliance, Syrena, and Syrenka dance groups over the years. In retirement, Alina attended the Catholic University of Lublin (KUL) to advance her knowledge of Polish history and culture. She was a member of the Polish National Alliance, Polanki Women's Cultural Club, Polish Falcons, and the Polish Heritage Alliance, and was an ardent supporter of the Syrena and Syrenka Polish Dance groups. Alina is survived by her children: Bernadette Swider (Ladislaus), Christine Swider (Andrzej), Henry Sedlak (Heidi), and Renate Sedlak. She was a beloved grandmother to Lucas Swider (Bree), Gabrielle Swider, Jeremy Swider, Christian Sedlak (Emily), Mark Swider, Alina Swider (Jesus), and step-granddaughter Heather Rodriguez (Adam). She was blessed with great-grandchildren Ella, Ladislas, Janek, Andrzej, Luke, and step-great-grandchildren Adam Jr., Isaiah, and Aliyah. Alina leaves behind her beloved “baby” sister, Hanna Brzozowski and her family, and her dear sister-in-law Louise Bialobrzeski and her family, along with many grand nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, John Sedlak, her parents, seven of her siblings (inclusive of the five as children), and many extended family members. Alina's life exhibited extraordinary resilience, shaped by war, sacrifice, and an unwavering commitment to family. Her faith carried her through it all, especially her lifelong devotion to Our Lady of Częstochowa. She will be remembered for her unceasing joy of life and her fierce will to live. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. In honor of Alina’s vibrant spirit, the family invites attendees to her funeral gathering to wear or display anything red and white in recognition of Poland’s national colors. Visitation Tuesday, September 8, 2026 from 11:00 AM – 12:45 PM at ROZGA FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES - LINCOLN VILLAGE CHAPEL. Closing prayers 12:45 AM at the Funeral Home. Mass of Christian Burial to be celebrated at 1:00 PM at the BASILICA OF ST. JOSAPHAT, 601 W. Lincoln Ave. Interment St. Adalbert Cemetery. Rozga Funeral & Cremation Services Lincoln Village Chapel 703 West Lincoln Avenue Milwaukee, WI 53215