Obituary of Boleslaw Budzynski

With heavy hearts and deep gratitude for a life well lived, we announce the peaceful passing of Bolesław “Ben” Budzynski, age 97, of Chatham, on Sunday, May 3, 2026.

Born on September 10, 1928, in Zawada, Poland, Ben was the son of the late Feliksa (Zychowicz) and Michał Budzynski. A proud Polish man, he carried the strength, resilience, and traditions of his homeland throughout his life. In his early years in Poland, he served in the military and worked as a skilled blacksmith—trades that reflected his discipline, determination, and strong work ethic.

Ben later made Canada his home, where he built a meaningful life rooted in hard work, faith, and family. He dedicated over 25 years of service to the janitorial team at Public General Hospital, now known as the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance, where he was respected for his reliability and pride in his work.

He was a man of deep and unwavering faith, a devoted participant in a weekly prayer group at Our Lady of Victory Parish where he was a parishioner since 1972, and someone who lived his beliefs with humility and grace. His faith guided him throughout his life, offering strength to those around him. Known for his open-minded spirit, and sense of humour, Ben brought song and laughter to those fortunate enough to know him.

Ben was the beloved husband of the late Maria Budzynski (née Byk), who predeceased him in 2006. Together, they built a life surrounded by love and raised a beautiful family grounded in strong values.

He will be dearly missed by his loving daughters and sons-in-law, Alicja “Alice” and Hernani Desa, and Krystyna and Domenico DeCola. He was a cherished grandfather “Dziadziu” to Angela (Clinton), Emily (Matthew), Marianna (Michael), Monica, Melissa, and a proud Pra Dziadziu to Amelia, Elena, Sophia, Henry, and James. 

He is survived by his brother Edward (Danuta) and sister-in-law Teresa, as well as many nieces, nephews, and extended family in Poland. He had strong connections with his nephews Joe (Kasia) Kaminski, and their family, and Andrzej (Michelle) Zakrzewski. 

Ben was predeceased by his grandson Vincent, his brother Gustaw, and his sister Adela (Mieczislaw).

He was a proud member of the Polish Canadian Social Club, where he remained connected to his heritage and community. His life was a testament to perseverance, devotion, and love of family.

Friends and relatives may visit at Hinnegan-Peseski Funeral Home on Thursday, May 7, 2026, from 2:00–4:00 PM and 6:00–8:00 PM, prayers at 7:30 PM. 

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Our Lady of Victory Church on Friday, May 8, 2026, at 10:00 AM.

Interment will follow at St. Anthony's Cemetery.

Donations in Ben’s memory to the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance Foundation would be appreciated.

Online condolences may be shared with the family www.peseski.com

“Wieczne odpoczywanie racz mu dać, Panie.”

“Jezu, ufam Tobie.”