One of seventeen children, he was born to Katherine and Ignatius Bemowski on Oct. 31, 1920 in Stevens Point.

Ben married Theresa (nee Grubba) on Oct. 17, 1942 in Stevens Point. They were married 42 years. She preceded him in death on Feb. 27, 1984. He was employed at Lullabye in Stevens Point and Gould in Milwaukee, where he retired in April 1983. Ben was a loving, caring and generous man. He loved polka music, cards and gambling. He enjoyed being close to his family. He lived with his daughters and was a member of St. Mary of the Hill parish.

A loving father to Beatrice (Donald) Sella of Hartford and Rose Marie (Danny) Billings of Tampa, Fla. A thoughtful grandfather to Kathleen (Kenneth) Fischer, Colleen (John) Eggleston, Michael Sella and Jennifer Sella. A caring great-grandfather to Theresa A. and James R. Eggleston and Jessica A. Fischer. Also survived by one brother, five sisters, and other relatives and friends.

Preceded in death by grandson Timothy Sella; six brothers; and two sisters.

Visitation was at the Schramka-Herrick Funeral Home in Menomonee Falls on Wednesday, Dec. 17, 2003 from 4 to 7 p.m., with a Vigil at 7 p.m. Additional visitation will be at Holy Hill, St. Therese Chapel from 8 to 9:30 a.m. on Thursday, Dec. 18, 2003. Funeral services will follow at 9:30 a.m., with Fr. Mark DeVelis officiating.

Interment at Holy Cross Cemetery, Milwaukee.