Carl Bambenek

Carl Frank Bambenek, age 75, of Winona, passed away on Friday, February 7, 2020, following complications from heart surgery.

He was born on July 19, 1944, in Winona, to Carl and Margaret (Weinmann) Bambenek, and graduated from Cotter High School in 1962.  He had a variety of work before meeting his wife, Barb (Jenson) Bambenek in 1969.  They were married in 1970, and two months later he began his 28 year career in Law Enforcement with the Winona Police Department.  He retired from the Police Department in 1998.

Carl loved sports!  Whether watching or playing, he loved flag football, hunting, fishing, bowling and golfing in three leagues, and even co-ed softball.  He was always laughing, joking, and teasing someone about something.  In retirement, he enjoyed watching the Twins, Gophers, and Vikings, and he kept the remote operating between politics, history, nature, science, and other sports updates.

He enjoyed family travel in the early years, and many more places with Barb, especially time spent at South Padre Island with friends.  He greatly appreciated the love and support of his many friends, especially in recent times.

Carl is survived by his wife, Barb; children: Alan Bambenek, and Denise (Joe) Matejka; grandchildren: Gavin Matejka, Ashley (Josh Seppa) Matejka, and Dylan Matejka; sister: Mary Pampuch; in-laws: Charles and Sharon Jenson; as well as nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends, including Chris Trynowski and Diana Fridell, his “adopted daughters.”  He was preceded in death by his parents, and brother-in-law: Jim Pampuch.

Carl was very proud of his Polish heritage, and to all he says, “Do zobaczenia! – Farewell!”

Memorials would be appreciated to the Polish Cultural Institute and Museum, or to an organization of choice.

Visitation will be held from 11 AM until the Mass of Christian Burial at noon on Friday, February 14, 2020, at the Basilica of St. Stanislaus Kostka.  The Reverend Richard Dernek will officiate.  Carl will be laid to rest in the spring at St. Mary’s Cemetery.

Online condolences or memories may be left for Carl’s family at www.watkowski-mulyck.com.