Benjamin John Prorwicz, 79, of West Chicago, IL, passed away on January 6, 2026, at Central DuPage Hospital.

Born Zbigniew Prorwicz on June 26, 1946, in Germany, Ben immigrated to America with his parents, Eugene and Teresa. Passing through Ellis Island as a young boy, his family settled in the vibrant Polish community of Chicago's South Side. He later chose the name Benjamin upon his naturalization - a name he would carry with pride throughout his life and his 22 years of military service in the U.S. Air Force and the Air National Guard.

Ben was a proud graduate of De La Salle High School, where he was a gymnast and track and field athlete, setting a record for pole vaulting. Prior to his voluntary enlistment in the service, Ben attended DePaul University. After, his commitment to technical mastery led him to earn a degree in Applied Sciences from the College of DuPage, where he later shared his expertise as a part-time instructor. He enjoyed a long and respected career in mechanical engineering for HVAC services, known for his sharp mind and ability to solve complex problems.

While Ben was a man of few words, he possessed a quiet presence that spoke volumes. He was a master negotiator with a unique wit and a charm that made him impossible not to love. An avid golfer and bowler, Ben was a fixture in the Air National Guard leagues. A photographer and true outdoorsman who found great peace in nature, whether he was hunting, fishing in Michigan and Canada, or spending cherished summers at the family cottage and lake in Knox, Indiana.

A lifetime member of the VFW, Ben was happiest when he was in the kitchen, as he truly loved to cook and feed the masses, especially sharing his heritage and love through Polish food.

He is survived by his devoted daughter, Tania Birch; his cherished granddaughter, Samantha Birch; his brother, Michael Prorwicz and wife Jen; and Sarah Sullivan, to whom he was married for 40 years. He also leaves behind his sister-in-law, Gloria Prorwicz (wife of the late Gene Prorwicz); his nieces, Vanessa Lehnhardt (Tom and daughter Brooke) and Stephanie Berry (Earl III and daughter Emmy); and his nephews, Nick, Brad, and Mitchell Prorwicz.

Ben was preceded in death by his parents, Eugene and Teresa, and his beloved brother, Gene Prorwicz.

His family will remember him for his strength, his cleverness, and the silent way he looked out for those he loved.

A private family interment with military honors was held at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in Elwood, Illinois. Services to honor Benjamin's life and legacy will be held at VFW Post 2164, located at 0N731 Papworth Street, Wheaton, IL 60187, on Friday, January 23, 2026:

• Fellowship and Food: 5:00 PM

• Memorial Service: 7:00 PM

In honor of Ben's life, donations may be made to VFW Post 2164 in Wheaton, IL. The family is grateful to the VFW for the companionship they provided Ben over the years