Winifred L. Polanski, age 96 of Kenosha, died peacefully at her residence on Wednesday, November 2, 2016.

Born in Milwaukee on June 25, 1920, she was the daughter of the late Alfred and Olga (Nitgsche) Caswell. She graduated from Mary D. Bradford High School.

From September 1, 1943 until her honorable discharge on July 23, 1945, Winifred proudly served our country as one of the original WACS.   Her life reflected her military experience and dedication.

She married Sargent Chester Richard Polanski on June 21, 1945 at Fort Sheridan, IL. He preceded her in death on August 29, 2002.

Winnie belonged to St. Anthony’s Catholic Church, St. Anthony Parish Social Group and the Bradford High School Reunion Committee. She was a longtime resident of Carol Beach. She was an avid reader and participated in the Wisconsin Talking Books Program.

Winnie is survived by her son, Richard (Jan) Polanski of Minneapolis, MN; her four grandchildren, Jill (Ed) Stawicki, Mark (Becky) Rosenow, Kyle (Alison) Polanski and Nathan (Jenn) Polanski; and four great grandchildren, Everett and Dylan Polanski, Danny Stawicki and Quinn Polanski.

In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by her daughter, Susan Rosenow; and her brother, Alfred E. Caswell, Jr.

The family would like to express a special thank you to Aurora At Home Hospice, Right At Home and Dr. A.J. Capelli and staff for their care and support.

Service Info

Funeral Services honoring Winifred’s life will be held on Friday, November 18, 2016. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m. at St. Anthony Catholic Church, 2223 51st Street. Full Military Honors follow the Mass at the church. Private inurnment will take place in St. Casimir Cemetery.