Frances P. Penkalski

(nee Olobry) Peacefully entered Heaven January 16, 2018 at the age of 96 years, with loving family at her bedside. She is survived by her sister Lorraine Kuligowski/Gandry, sons Dennis (Candy), Jim (Nancy) and Wayne (Bev), grandchildren Craig, Tammy, Wendy, Randy (Leah), Joshua (Tammy), Chance, Emily and Julie Potter. She is further survived by great-grandchildren, numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. She is preceded in death by her beloved husband of 69 years, Henry "Speedy" Penkalski, sister Reggie (Cap) Witmer, brother Frank (Gertrude) Lopez and grandson Brian Penkalski. Frances was born in Milwaukee, WI, she attended school in the Archdiocese of Milwaukee, graduated from Girls Trade and Technical H.S. in 1940 and married Henry Penkalski in 1941. From an entry level position at the First Wisconsin National Bank (now US Bank), she was eventually promoted as the first female Branch Operations Officer until her retirement. A Charter Member of the St. Roman Parish, she helped form the Christian Women Society and was a member of the Polish Alliance. A beloved volunteer in the Gift Shop of St. Francis Hospital in Milwaukee where she provided over 7,000 hours of volunteer service over 30 years. Fran sang in the Wilsonnaires Choir at the Wilson Park Senior Center where she also led the Senior Exercise Groups and performed piano accompaniment and concerts at many events throughout the area. In addition to her accomplished piano skills she played accordion, enjoyed traveling, international vacations, crochet, and hosted countless large family gatherings. An avid reader, she read and documented her book reviews at an average of two to three books per week. Her skills at playing cards, especially Sheepshead, are legendary. She was kind, generous and compassionate and known for her gracious personality and putting the needs of others before her own. She will be missed by many and her family was fortunate to have her loving example in their lives. In lieu of flowers, donations in her name may be made to the Milwaukee Area Salvation Army, sent to Dennis Penkalski c/o the Funeral Home. Visitation Saturday, January 20 from 10:00-11:00 AM at ST. ROMAN CHURCH (1810 W. Bolivar Ave) followed by the celebration of Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 AM. Entombment St. Adalbert Cemetery.