Walter J. Chowanec - Born May 1, 1940. Entered into Eternal Life May 30, 2022. Joining the Angels and Saints, a man of Deep Faith.
Walt was preceded in death by his parents, Mary and John P. Chowanec Sr., Sister-in-law, Shirley A Chowanec, Brother-in-law, Dennis V. Thompson, Lyle Hofacker, and niece, Jaclyn Pettis. Survived by brothers, Robert J Chowanec, Paul Chowanec (Judy), John P. Chowanec, Jr., and sisters Ann Thompson and Theresa Hofacker., also many cousins, nephews, nieces, and friends.
Walt was blessed, a man of many talents. He went to Holy Family Grade School, Cudahy. Graduated from Don Bosco, Milwaukee, with honors. Entered the Brothers of Mary, August 20, 1958, Galesville, WI from there went onto study with the Brothers in San Antonio, TX. Came back home to study at Marquette University, Milwaukee. Was Cudahy Jaycee Man of the Year, served on the Church council at St. Fred's, and was a member of the choir. Soon after, he opened 3 small diners called the Strawberry Patch. Named for his Collie-Patches. Was co-owner of Melanec's Wheelhouse on Riverboat Road along the Milwaukee River. Walt brought theatre to the Wheelhouse with the musicals Nun Sense and his favorite Patsy Cline. Soon he began to write and produce with his younger brother John, Murder Mysteries. Melanec's Wheelhouse introduced MM Dinner Theatre to Milwaukee. Walt's first MM was the Flapper Affair dedicated to mom, Mary Chowanec. What a proud moment between Mother and Son!
Walt was called Home May 30th. Walt's celebration of Life will be June 22, 2022 at Holy Sepulcher Cemetery (enter on College Ave or Lake Dr.). The service will be at 11 am in the Chapel then to the grave site of parents Mary and John Chowanec for inurnment. Deacon Gerald Ponec to officiate. We invite family and friends to join us for our special good-bye to our brother. Walt will be deeply missed.
Sincere thank you to the staff at The Villa Assisted Living and to Molthen-Bell Funeral Home, So. Milwaukee for your unwavering support during this time.