Christine "Chris" Panek

Chris Panek passed away unexpectedly at home on September 1, 2025.

Loving wife and best friend of Jerry Panek for 46 years, and a beloved sister of Ann Marie (Bob) Rantanen and Margaret Ellen (Bill) Lenski. She was a special Godmother to Matthew (Jena) Lenski, dear Aunt to Steven (Jenna) Lenski, and two great-nephews and two great-nieces. She is further survived by many wonderful family members, friends, and neighbors.

Chris was preceded in death by her parents, James and Jolanta (nee Budnik) Pilak.

Chris retired after many years from Milwaukee County. Throughout her career, she was awarded employee of the year twice. She was an adventurous person and thoroughly enjoyed her years of casino trips, cruising, and traveling. One of her most memorable trips was to Rome in 1990, when she had an audience with Pope John Paul II and watched the final game of the soccer World Cup. Chris loved all animals, especially her feline companions, which brought her so much joy. Her family and friends will remember all the great times they spent with her and the truly kind and highly ethical person that she was. The memories we have will be cherished forever.

A special thank you to Dr. Milka Mandich for the many years of compassionate care for Chris’s continuing health issues.

A celebration of her life will be held at Max A Sass – Mission Hills Chapel, 8910 W. Drexel Ave. Franklin, WI 53132, on Tuesday, September 23, from 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm with a prayer service at 6:00 pm. There will be a private entombment at St. Adalbert Cemetery at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Wisconsin Humane Society in Chris’s honor.