Pentti William “Ben” Saari, 89, of Kenosha, passed away peacefully on Friday, October 11, 2019, at Froedtert Kenosha Hospital. Born in Kauhava, Finland, on January 31, 1930, he was the son of the late Jack and Anna (Koivisto) Saarimaki. After graduating school in Finland, he came to the United States in 1949. He served in the US Army from 1952-1955 during the Korean conflict. On May 14, 1955, he married Carol D. Youren in Negaunee, MI. They then moved to Kenosha to make their home. She preceded him in death on November 19, 2000. Ben was employed at AMC/Chrysler for 30 years and retired in 1982. He then enjoyed 15 years as a Laidlaw school bus driver. Ben was a lifelong member of the VFW 1865, the American Legion Post 21, and the Kenosha Eagles Club. He loved the outdoors, woodworking, landscaping, camping, fishing, and traveling. More than anything, he loved spending time with his grandchildren. He touched the lives of many and will be missed by all who loved him. Survivors include his three children, Lawrence (Dawn) Saari of Kenosha, Garry (Melanie) Saari of Las Vegas, NV, and Lynn (Eric) Streich of De Pere, WI; his grandchildren, Garry, Brian (Jocelyn), Benjamin (Nicole) and Adam (Kelsey) Saari, Taylor (Nate) Burchell, Matthew, Bradley, Patrick, and Grace Streich; and his great-grandchildren, Aaron, Ethan, Logan, and Elizabeth. He is further survived by his loving companion, Jean Larson. He is preceded in death by his wife of 45 years, Carol; and his parents, Anna and Jack. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, October 15th, at Proko Funeral Home, from 3:30 – 5:30 p.m. with services commencing at 5:30 p.m. followed by military honors. Entombment will be held privately at Sunset Ridge Memorial Park at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorials to the VFW Post 1865, 6618 39th Ave, Kenosha, WI 53142, would be appreciated by the family.Proko Funeral Home & Crematory5111-60th StreetKenosha, WI 53144Phone: (262) 654-3533Visit & Sign Ben’s Online Memorial Book at:www.prokofuneralhome.com
Condolences
Elaine Ault
October 17, 2019
I just recall what a good friend Pentti was to my dad who passed away 43 years ago. He was a Finnish boy like my dad and they were like an older brother with a younger brother. I was hoping to see Ben one more time before he got too sick or frail, but I know he is with Carol and other family in a better place.
Patrick Kanniainen
October 16, 2019
Our deepest condolences on your loss, Pentti will be missed by all of us!Our thoughts and prayers are with you.Louie Kanniainen Patrick Kanniainen Micheal Kanniainen
Lowanda
October 16, 2019
My condolences to your family. In your sorrow may there be hope, in your thoughts may there be peace, in your heart may there be be healing. Psalm 147:73 assures us "He (Jehovah God) heals the broken hearted,He binds up our wounds". May you find comfort in God's Words at this difficult time.
Sari Kaidesoja
October 12, 2019
Our memories about Pentti in Finland 1996 and 2008. There are Anna Saarimäki and Liisa Kaidesoja, and our children Matti and Mari at the pictures. At the youngest picture are Hannu and Sari Kaidesoja and their sons Matti and Manu with Pentti. We have great memories about Pentti. We are very sorry for your lost.