Lillian Budnik

Lillian Josephine Budnik, 93, Wausau, died Friday, July 22, 2011 at Aspirus Wausau Hospital.

Lillian was born December 7, 1917 in Marathon to the late John and Marie (Pecka) Milbeck. She was a graduate of Wausau High School. Lillian met her future husband by chance while waiting outside in the rain, suddenly a car pulled up and Edward Budnik asked if he could give her a ride. The two married February 3, 1937 in Chicago, IL. Lillian and Edward were blessed with the births of their children, Robert, Charlene and Janice. She worked for Ace Foods as a supervisor. Lillian and Edward celebrated 56 years together prior to his death, July 28, 1993.

Faith drove Lillian's life. Lillian and Edward were founding members of Saint Anne's Catholic Church and the church was an always an important part of their lives. She was an excellent cook and baker, making many wonderful treats for her family. In her free time Lillian enjoyed cross-stitching, working on word searches and playing cards.

Lillian is survived by her children, Robert (Sandra) Budnik of Arizona, Charlene (Mark) Ballschmieder of Mosinee and Janice Havlish of Wausau; grandchildren, Scott, Michelle, Bart, Rebecca, Sarah and Lisa; great-grandchildren, Andy, Aaron, Natasha, Kyrsta, Mason, Sophie, Nathan, Rhilen, Theodore and James; sister, Dorothy Kujawa of Schofield and many more extended family and friends. She is preceded in death by her siblings, Helen, Winnie, Mildred, Johnny and Ray; and son-in-law, James Havlish.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 2:00 PM Monday, August 1, 2011 at Saint Anne's Catholic Church, Wausau. Father James Schaefer will be officiating. Visitation will begin at 1:00 PM at the church and last until mass at 2:00 PM. Entombment will follow mass at Restlawn Memorial Park Garden of Eternal Rest. You may sign our family guestbook at www.helke.com.