Rev. Brendan Wroblewski, O.F.M.

 Rev.  Brendan Wroblewski, O.F.M.

1930 - 1923

Louis & Bessie (neé Fialkowski) Wroblewski gave birth to their son, Louis Paul on March 11, 1930 in Chicago, Illinois and on March 30, 1930, that same month, Rev. Przybylski baptized Louis at St. Ladislaus Catholic Church in Chicago.

From 1935-1943 Louis attend St. Ladislaus Parish Grade School in Chicago. Sensing a call by the Lord, Louis applied and was accepted into St. Bonaventure Minor Seminary High School, Sturtevant, Wisconsin, graduating in 1947. It was July 29, 1947 that Louis received a communication from Fr. Theophane Kalinowski, Provincial Minister of the ABVM Province of Franciscans reminding him that he was accepted as a novice and was expected to report to Pulaski, Wisconsin, where he would begin his formal life as a friar. 

In August 1947, Louis was invested with the Franciscan habit and was given the name “Brendan.” On August 15, 1948, Brendan professed simple vows and began college studies at St. Francis College, Burlington, Wisconsin. While in Burlington, Brendan professed solemn vows on August 15, 1951. Following his studies at St. Francis College, it was off to Lourdes Theologate, Cedar Lake, In where he began his studies, finishing his seminary studies for priesthood at Christ the King Seminary, West Chicago, Illinois.  He was ordained by Bishop Leo Pursley on June 4, 1955 at Holy Name Parish, Cook, Indiana.

Brendan’s love for music prompted him to pursue studies at DePaul University earning him a Master’s Degree in Music. He joined the faculty at St. Anthony of Padua High School, Watkins Glen from 1959-1966. This began an extensive journey in secondary education and his love of music and theatre.  From Watkins Glen he found himself at St. Bonaventure Minor Seminary & High School, Sturtevant, WI where he would minister for the next 17 years. He had an ability to nurture the talents of the students and bring out the best in them.

Another chapter opened up for Brendan after his teaching career when he engaged in pastoral ministry.  In 1983, he was assigned to Saginaw, Michigan and St. Thomas Aquinas Parish, where he joined a team of friars engaged in parochial work. Brendan was a masterful preacher and teacher. His skills in music and drama brought a completely new dimension to his pastoring abilities. After 13 years in Michigan, he was assigned to St. Mary of the Angels Parish, Green Bay, Wisconsin where he offered his parochial skills and then on to ABVM Parish, Pulaski, WI.

Photography was yet another gift that Brendan enjoyed and shared. His pictures of nature made for several calendars and note cards published by the Development Office of the ABVM Province.

During his time in Pulaski, Brendan struggled with health issues.  The friars in Pulaski began noticing his steps growing slower.  His failing health demanded more attention. It was at this time that Brendan requested a transfer to Queen of Peace Friary, Burlington, WI. With his health continuing to deteriorate, Brendan agreed to be moved to the Milwaukee Catholic Home, where he met Sister Death on the evening of February 17, 2023. Brendan died in the 93th year of his life, the 72nd year of is religious profession and the 68th year of his ordination.

Friends are invited to gather at Assumption B.V.M. Church, 119 E. Pulaski St., Pulaski, on Sunday, February 26, from 3-6 p.m. with an evening prayer service at 6:00 p.m. Visitation will continue on Monday, at the church from 9-11 a.m. The Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11 a.m. with Provincial Minister Fr. James Gannon, O.F.M. presiding. Burial will be in Spring in the Provincial Cemetery, Pulaski.

Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord and let perpetual light shine upon him.

May his soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, rest in peace.

Amen.

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