Visitation
Krause Funeral Home New Berlin
12401 West National Avenue
New Berlin, WI 53151
Friday 9/9,
4:00 pm - 7:00 pm
St. Matthew's Evangelical Lutheran Church
1615 Wauwatosa Avenue
Wauwatosa, WI 53213
Saturday 9/10,
10:00 am - 11:00 am
Service
St. Matthew's Evangelical Lutheran Church
1615 Wauwatosa Avenue
Wauwatosa, WI 53213
Saturday 9/10,
11:00 am
Memorial
In honor and memory of Ben Breitenfeldt, Elizabeth, and family you can donate to https://gofund.me/eba59b2c
Sign Guestbook Here
Ben E. Breitenfeldt (November 29, 1985 – August 24, 2022) Ben Erlin Breitenfeldt was born on November 29, 1985. Ben went to his Heavenly home on August 24, 2022. Ben had medical complications over many months and passed away at St. Luke’s hospital in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He was the beloved son of Paul and LaurieContinue Reading
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Ben E. Breitenfeldt
(November 29, 1985 – August 24, 2022)
Ben Erlin Breitenfeldt was born on November 29, 1985. Ben went to his Heavenly home on August 24, 2022. Ben had medical complications over many months and passed away at St. Luke’s hospital in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
He was the beloved son of Paul and Laurie (Rigstad) Breitenfeldt of Mosinee, Wisconsin, and the big brother to Heidi Breitenfeldt of West Allis, Wisconsin, and Clara (Toney) Rogers of Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
He met the love of his life, Elizabeth (Smoot) Breitenfeldt of West Allis, Wisconsin in 2011. They were married at Saint Matthew’s Lutheran Church in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin on October 16, 2015. It is then his family grew with Gilman and Cheryl Smoot of Minneapolis, Minnesota, father and mother in law, and brother and sister in law Justin and Phyllis Smoot, of Rib Mountain, Wisconsin.
Ben was the super cool uncle to Malaki Breitenfeldt, of West Allis, Wisconsin and to Lillian and Genevieve Smoot of Rib Mountain, Wisconsin. Ben will be greatly missed by his Grandma Marian Breitenfeldt of Appleton, Wisconsin, along with many loving uncles, aunts, and cousins. He will be greeted in Heaven by several beloved family members and students that he gave his heart and life to through his education career.
His life began in Cloquet, Minnesota until a move to Windom, Minnesota in June 2000. His family then moved to Mosinee, Wisconsin, where he was very active in several activities including football, wrestling, and band. He also loved working on computers with his friends.
Ben attended Concordia University – Mequon (2004) where he continued to play football on a championship team as a right offensive tackle. Along with playing football, he completed his Bachelor of Arts degree in Elementary Education and with minors in Computer Science and Math.
Following college, he went on to Cardinal Stritch University earning a Masters of Education in Instructional Technology. Ben used his knowledge and skills at the following places of learning; Urban Day School, Lincoln Intermediate School, West Milwaukee Intermediate School, St. Amelia’s Lakeside, and most recently Norris Academy.
Ben was loved by so many people including his loving family and close friends who considered him family as well. He enjoyed living life with Elizabeth, spending time with his dogs and cats; Ruby, Chancellor, Bear, and Braum. He was a huge sports enthusiast and enjoyed passing on those skills by coaching many kids, especially his nephew, Malaki.
Ben was so very proud of his first home with his wife and enjoyed creating it as a space where everyone was welcome. He loved to fill their backyard with smiles and laughter! If you were to ask his wife Elizabeth what she enjoyed the most with Ben it would be, “Everything. We were happy just being together.”
Being a technologically minded skillful person, Ben extended his knowledge to whomever needed assistance. In his leisure time, he enjoyed his backyard with his wife and dogs. He loved gathering around a campfire, playing computer games, card games, and watching sports. Ben’s favorite teams included the Packers, Brewers, and Bucks. He also enjoyed fishing at Three Lakes and hunting in Tigerton and Underhill with his dad, Paul, father-in-law, Gilman, and best friends like Mike Fleischer, Uncle Miles, and the Breitenfeldt family. Ben was an all-around great guy!
Ben was so very special. He cared for many. He would want others to continue to follow in his legacy of caring for one another.
Many plans are in the making to honor Ben. In honor and memory of Ben Breitenfeldt, Elizabeth, and family you can donate to https://gofund.me/eba59b2c
In celebration of Ben’s life, please contribute photos and stories of Ben. Please send them to smoot42@gmail.com.
Visitation will be on Friday, September 9th, 2022, from 4 to 7pm at Krause Funeral Home located at 12401 West National Avenue, New Berlin, Wisconsin.
A Celebration of Life service will be held on Saturday, September 10th, 2022, at 10:00 AM for visitation and 11:00 AM service at Saint Mathew’s Lutheran Church located at 1615 N. Wauwatosa Ave., Wauwatosa, Wisconsin.
Please check periodically for updates. Thank you for your many prayers and thoughts at this time.
To God be the glory!
Brian Conklin
left a message on September 10, 2022:
Always remembered.
Rose and Gerald Frazier
left a message on September 10, 2022:
We will miss gentle Ben
His niece Skai will tell her Aunt Clara that she is praying for uncle Ben to get better and she loved him.
Our condolences
Rose , Gerald, Gigi and Family
David & Jessica Harms
left a message on September 10, 2022:
I wish with all my heart that I could be there. Your family is in our thoughts and prayers. We miss you Ben, and we will be seeing you again.
Sarah Anderson
left a message on September 9, 2022:
My heart goes out to Ben’s wife, Elizabeth, his parents, Laurie and Paul and sisters Heidi and Clara. I was fortunate enough to have known Ben while at Concordia. I truly believe our paths crossed for a time and space to grow from one another. I was deeply saddened to learn about the loss of such a kind and caring individual who impacted my college years in such a positive light. My deepest and sincerest condolences go out to his loved ones during this difficult time.
Heidi Breitenfeldt
left a message on September 9, 2022:
You will always be my big brother
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
The Walker Family & Desiree Trochinski
left a message on September 9, 2022:
Our Deepest sympathy goes out to the whole family. May the Lord send you all the strength, comfort, and the peace that passes all understanding. May the warmest memories of Ben stay alive in Your hearts. You are in our thoughts and prayers. God’s Blessings.
Nairy Bzdigian
left a message on September 8, 2022:
In the memory of Uncle Ben.
Nairy Bzdigian
left a message on September 8, 2022:
I met Uncle Ben during Christmas Break during my exchange year in 2017-2018 with the Smoot Family. Even though he was not my blood-related uncle, I felt the family connection, and I saw how great of an uncle he was to my sisters Lillian and Genevive. He got all 100+ candies!! And I remember eating them for the rest of my exchange year :)
It broke my heart seeing the announcement of his death. Life takes unexpected turns sometimes - sometimes very hurtful turns. Vene though Uncle Ben left the physical world, he still lives with us through memories and warm feelings. May his soul rest in peace.
To Auntie Liz and all family, sending you healing energy and prayers. Stay strong in these heartbreaking times <3
Wayne Koepke
left a message on September 5, 2022:
Dear Breitenfeldt Family,
We are heartbroken and sorry to hear of the loss of your beloved son, Ben. I’ve read about his great accomplishments as a young man (and teacher @ Norris) that he’d made in the short time he was with you, this will make you even prouder to have known him!
I was once informally introduced to you and I may have never really spoken to you, but I know about your kindness and generosity that you have recently and continue to show to our family through and for my brother, Paul. For this we thank you so much!
For all this: Heaven is his reward!
God’s blessings to you all,
Wayne Koepke
Anna Garnet (Rigstad)
left a message on September 5, 2022:
Elizabeth I am so sorry for your loss of your husband. Laurie & Paul I am so sorry for the loss of your son. Heidi & Clara I am so sorry for your loss of your brother. Malaki I am sorry for your loss of your uncle! I can’t imagine what you all are going through! I am send you ALL love to navigate without Ben! Rest easy Ben. Give grandma & grandpa a huge hug from me!
Demetrios begos
left a message on September 4, 2022:
My deepest sympathies to Elizabeth and Ben’s family. Ben was a wonderful guy and friend. He made west Milwaukee a better place. He was also a joy to hang out with — whether talking football or cards. I will miss you much Ben!
Wayne Perkins
left a message on August 29, 2022:
I’m so sorry for your loss, Liz 😞
Gitanjali Chawla
left a message on August 29, 2022:
Dear Elizabeth!
Please accept my heartfelt condolences on your husband's passing. May you be at peace and may you be comforted by cherished memories. May your husband Rest In Peace in his heavenly abode.
Phyllis Eileen Smoot
left a message on August 29, 2022:
In memory of Ben
Erlin
Breitenfeldt, Phyllis Eileen Smoot lit a candle
David Tuttle
left a message on August 29, 2022:
Dear Family and Friends of Ben,
Ben was a great guy and a great employee for the Norris School. His strengths at Norris were maximized as he brought his even disposition and friendly approach to our students and staff in everything he touched. Although we did not work directly together, I always felt confident that if Ben was involved in whatever we were doing, that our students/youth would get a supportive and positive role model who made a difference for them. He is leaving us too soon and will be missed. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and his dedication to learning and his impact on others evident.
Way to go Ben, you brought your best self ever day.
Dave Tuttle - Norris School and Inc.
Tiffany M Dorantes
left a message on August 28, 2022:
My deepest condolences to the Breitenfeldt family.
Karl rigstad
left a message on August 28, 2022:
Rest in peace 🕊️
Ryan nestingen
left a message on August 27, 2022:
Condolences to both families for their loss
Sandy
left a message on August 27, 2022:
So sorry - please lord lift Ben’s family up to find the strength to get through this difficult time.
left a message:
Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.
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Brian Conklin
left a message on September 10, 2022:
Always remembered.
Rose and Gerald Frazier
left a message on September 10, 2022:
We will miss gentle Ben
His niece Skai will tell her Aunt Clara that she is praying for uncle Ben to get better and she loved him.
Our condolences
Rose , Gerald, Gigi and Family
David & Jessica Harms
left a message on September 10, 2022:
I wish with all my heart that I could be there. Your family is in our thoughts and prayers. We miss you Ben, and we will be seeing you again.
Sarah Anderson
left a message on September 9, 2022:
My heart goes out to Ben’s wife, Elizabeth, his parents, Laurie and Paul and sisters Heidi and Clara. I was fortunate enough to have known Ben while at Concordia. I truly believe our paths crossed for a time and space to grow from one another. I was deeply saddened to learn about the loss of such a kind and caring individual who impacted my college years in such a positive light. My deepest and sincerest condolences go out to his loved ones during this difficult time.
Heidi Breitenfeldt
left a message on September 9, 2022:
You will always be my big brother
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
The Walker Family & Desiree Trochinski
left a message on September 9, 2022:
Our Deepest sympathy goes out to the whole family. May the Lord send you all the strength, comfort, and the peace that passes all understanding. May the warmest memories of Ben stay alive in Your hearts. You are in our thoughts and prayers. God’s Blessings.
Nairy Bzdigian
left a message on September 8, 2022:
In the memory of Uncle Ben.
Nairy Bzdigian
left a message on September 8, 2022:
I met Uncle Ben during Christmas Break during my exchange year in 2017-2018 with the Smoot Family. Even though he was not my blood-related uncle, I felt the family connection, and I saw how great of an uncle he was to my sisters Lillian and Genevive. He got all 100+ candies!! And I remember eating them for the rest of my exchange year :)
It broke my heart seeing the announcement of his death. Life takes unexpected turns sometimes - sometimes very hurtful turns. Vene though Uncle Ben left the physical world, he still lives with us through memories and warm feelings. May his soul rest in peace.
To Auntie Liz and all family, sending you healing energy and prayers. Stay strong in these heartbreaking times <3
Wayne Koepke
left a message on September 5, 2022:
Dear Breitenfeldt Family,
We are heartbroken and sorry to hear of the loss of your beloved son, Ben. I’ve read about his great accomplishments as a young man (and teacher @ Norris) that he’d made in the short time he was with you, this will make you even prouder to have known him!
I was once informally introduced to you and I may have never really spoken to you, but I know about your kindness and generosity that you have recently and continue to show to our family through and for my brother, Paul. For this we thank you so much!
For all this: Heaven is his reward!
God’s blessings to you all,
Wayne Koepke
Anna Garnet (Rigstad)
left a message on September 5, 2022:
Elizabeth I am so sorry for your loss of your husband. Laurie & Paul I am so sorry for the loss of your son. Heidi & Clara I am so sorry for your loss of your brother. Malaki I am sorry for your loss of your uncle! I can’t imagine what you all are going through! I am send you ALL love to navigate without Ben! Rest easy Ben. Give grandma & grandpa a huge hug from me!
Demetrios begos
left a message on September 4, 2022:
My deepest sympathies to Elizabeth and Ben’s family. Ben was a wonderful guy and friend. He made west Milwaukee a better place. He was also a joy to hang out with — whether talking football or cards. I will miss you much Ben!
Wayne Perkins
left a message on August 29, 2022:
I’m so sorry for your loss, Liz 😞
Gitanjali Chawla
left a message on August 29, 2022:
Dear Elizabeth!
Please accept my heartfelt condolences on your husband's passing. May you be at peace and may you be comforted by cherished memories. May your husband Rest In Peace in his heavenly abode.
Phyllis Eileen Smoot
left a message on August 29, 2022:
In memory of Ben
Erlin
Breitenfeldt, Phyllis Eileen Smoot lit a candle
David Tuttle
left a message on August 29, 2022:
Dear Family and Friends of Ben,
Ben was a great guy and a great employee for the Norris School. His strengths at Norris were maximized as he brought his even disposition and friendly approach to our students and staff in everything he touched. Although we did not work directly together, I always felt confident that if Ben was involved in whatever we were doing, that our students/youth would get a supportive and positive role model who made a difference for them. He is leaving us too soon and will be missed. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and his dedication to learning and his impact on others evident.
Way to go Ben, you brought your best self ever day.
Dave Tuttle - Norris School and Inc.
Tiffany M Dorantes
left a message on August 28, 2022:
My deepest condolences to the Breitenfeldt family.
Karl rigstad
left a message on August 28, 2022:
Rest in peace 🕊️
Ryan nestingen
left a message on August 27, 2022:
Condolences to both families for their loss
Sandy
left a message on August 27, 2022:
So sorry - please lord lift Ben’s family up to find the strength to get through this difficult time.
left a message:
Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.
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