June 16, 2026 – West Bend, Wi – Joseph C. Vrana, Jr. of West Bend died on Tuesday, June 16, 2026 at his home at the age of 83 years. He was born December 14, 1942 in West Bend to the late Joseph and Esther (nee Wolf) Vrana.
He attended Holy Angels grade school, and then went on to attend Sacred Heart Seminary in Danville, IL.
Following the closure of the seminary, he returned to West Bend. A short time later, he was drafted into the United States Army.
Following his discharge, he returned to West Bend and along with his father and brothers, ran Vrana Frame and Body Shop in Barton.
He was a member of the Kettle Moraine Sport Riders, Dairyland Tin Lizzies and the Kirchhayn Cruisers Car Club. He was also an active volunteer and member of many organizations over the years. If anyone was ever in need of a helping hand, Joe was right there to help.
As a classic car enthusiast, he would often be the go-to guy with any questions. He also loved to share his knowledge of cars and engines with his nephews, nieces and anyone who would ask.
Survivors include his 2 brothers: Mike and Terry, both of West Bend; 2 sisters Mary (Richard) Wietor and Besty (Alan) Bruendl, both of Kewaskum; sister-in-law Mary Vrana of Kewaskum; many nieces and nephews, other relatives and friends.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother Timothy “Butch” and sister Sr. Jean Mary, SSND.
Family will greet relatives and friends during a period of visitation on Tuesday, June 23 from 10 a.m. until 12:45 p.m. at St. Mary’s Immaculate Conception Catholic Church with a Mass of Christian Burial at 1 p.m. Burial will follow in Holy Angels Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, Masses or memorials to support veterans’ causes appreciated.
The Schmidt Funeral Home of West Bend is serving the family. Messages for the family may be left in an online guestbook at www.schmidtfuneralhome.com.
