Mildred Konieczny

Mildred Rose Konieczny, age 92, found eternal peace on February 7, 2024. Even in her final moments, she was strong, bright, and had a smile to share with everyone.

Throughout her life, she touched the hearts of all who knew her with her warmth, kindness, and unwavering love.

Her inviting smile and engaging personality made people feel immediately comfortable and welcome in her presence. A woman who could discuss any topic, open to any perspective, ever willing to listen without judgement to any story or soul seeking connection.

Born August 8th, 1931 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin to Frank and Rosalia Cecilia Otto, Millie was magic: Her energy, her presence, the soft twinkle which never seemed to leave her eyes, sparklingly green and wise beyond the knowledge of her mind. Her love for life lifted up all those who orbited her field.

Mille was a devoted wife to Ervin Joseph, with whom she shared 60 years of love and companionship. Together, they built a home filled with love, laughter, parties, and cherished memories. There are many forms of abundance: Millie and Erv shared spades of laughter, joy, connection, and celebration.

A devoted mother, Milania Rosa poured her heart into raising her children: Susan (Mark), Dale (Jill), Bonnie (Lenny), and Kris (Lisa). She instilled in them the values of compassion, integrity, and resilience, which they carry with them today.

Above all, Millie was a doting grandmother to Kelly, Nick (Nico), Jordan (Cora), Julie (Chris), Kristin (Jay), Alanna (Shane), Marissa (Colt) and Santino, and great-grandmother to Carson, Paikea, Claire, Lily, Camden, Caleb, Charlie, Ava, Elijah and Evie. She adored spending time with them, whether it was baking cookies, telling stories, or sharing words of wisdom. Her love knew no bounds, and her presence brought light into their lives.

Mildred had a passion for popcorn, people and presents, and found joy in baking, making soup, and selling popcorn with the love of her life at their renowned Mom ‘n Pop Corn stand in Catalano Square, in Milwaukee’s Historic Third Ward.

A woman who would do just about anything for a celebration, Millie was always excited just to be with people. A natural networker, she was a true pillar of the varying community circles she occupied throughout her life. An eternal symbol of compassion, grace, and a royalty in her self-confidence and expression, Milania was, through and through, her truest self every day of her life.

May we find peace in the knowing that she accomplished and experienced so much, in such a full, beautiful life. Her legacy lives on in fractals of love and life rippling out through the people she touched in her time on earth.

You can find the echoes of this ripple effect throughout Milwaukee: Millie once had her hands and feet cast in concrete as a momento to her celebrity around town. And you can visit the bench that sits in Catalano Square, a momento to  the deep impact of Millie and Erv’s charisma in the community.

Millie will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Yet what we love becomes part of us. Her legacy of love, kindness, and strength will continue to inspire us for generations to come.

Gathering will be held at Krause Funeral Home, 12401 West National Avenue, New Berlin on Sunday, March 3, 2024 from 2:00 PM – 3:45 PM.  Celebration of Mildred’s life 4:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family.

“I am so truly blessed. I thank the Lord every day, for all of you.” —Millie

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