October 23, 1934 – January 22, 2026
Charles “Charlie” F. Istvanek, 91, of Kenosha, passed away peacefully in his home on Thursday, January 22, 2026, surrounded by family.
Born in Pleasant Prairie on October 23, 1934, he was the son of the late Stephen and Mary (Bizon) Istvanek. He was married to the love of his life, Sandra Witkauskis, for 48 years until she preceded him in death on May 31, 2009. In his younger days, he enjoyed hunting, playing baseball, and driving his ‘59 Buick.
Charlie was known for his kindness, generosity, and strong work ethic. He served in the United States Army from 1957 to 1963 and was certified as a medic, receiving two medals. He was employed primarily as a welder for American Motors Corporation for over 30 years. He then continued to work for the Kenosha County Parks Department for another 10 plus years. After retirement, he continued to remain active by helping on his family farm. He always loved spending time with his family. Charlie loved and spoiled many dogs throughout his life, including Cinnamon, Chocolate, Rags, Meggy, Whiskers, Sandy, Patches, and Spicer.
Charlie is survived by his daughter, Tammi (Jeffrey) Senical; grandchildren, Tisha (Gregory) Geis, Samantha (Ryan) Lauf; siblings, Patricia Cairo and James (Heidi) Istvanek; nephew William (Abby) Schmidt; and great-nephews, Stephen and Trent; and great-niece, Brooke.
Along with his parents and wife, Sandra, he was preceded in death by his children, Sherri and Lisa Ann Istvanek; siblings, Stephen, Rosie, Albert, Ida, Lizzie, Ann, Eddie, and Mary; and brother-in-law, Louis Cairo.
Charlie will truly be missed by all who knew and loved him.
A visitation will be held at Proko Funeral Home on Friday, January 30, 2026, from 9:30 a.m. until the time of a prayer service at 11:30 a.m. Immediately following, a Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Peter Catholic Church, 2224 30th Avenue, Kenosha, WI 53144, at 12:30 p.m. Interment will be held privately in All Saints Mausoleum. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Dementia Society of America.
To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Charles, please visit our Tree Store.
Events
Visitation
Friday, January 30, 2026
9:30 am – 11:30 am
Proko Funeral Home & Crematory
5111-60th Street KENOSHA, WI 53144
Service
Friday, January 30, 2026
12:30 pm
St. Peter Catholic Church
2224-30th Avenue KENOSHA, WI 5314
Final Resting Place
All Saints Cemetery & Mausoleum
3300 Springbrook Road Pleasant Prairie, WI 53158
