Virginia M. Banach (nee Braun), age 81, passed away peacefully on November 16, 2025, after courageously battling an ongoing illness for many years. She was surrounded by the love of her family. Virginia was born on December 10, 1943, in Waukesha, Wisconsin, where she was raised by her parents, Killian P. Braun and Cecilia A. (nee Heinz) Braun.

Virginia grew up with a strong sense of determination and care—qualities that carried her throughout her life. She attended WCTC in Waukesha, graduating as an LPN, and devoted many years to a meaningful career in health care. Her compassion, precision, and dedication were felt by the countless individuals and families she supported.

Virginia loved deeply and lived fully. Throughout her life, she shared companionship and marriage with Richard McDonald, Melvin Banach, George Wolfer, and Christian Waldhart—each of whom preceded her in death. Her journey through these chapters reflected her hope, resilience, and steadfast belief in love.

She was a woman with a tender heart for animals, a green thumb that brought beauty to every garden she touched, and a faith that guided her through every season of life. She also found joy in knitting, crocheting, camping, choir, and photography—hobbies that allowed her to express creativity, connect with others, and savor the world around her.

Virginia is survived by her children Michelle McDonald (Mike Karls), Robert (Chiharu) McDonald, and Patrice (Michael) Mohr; her grandchildren Mina, Lance, Ryan, Eric, and Lea; and her great-grandchildren Joseph, Riley, and Lilia. She is also survived by her siblings Kathleen (Mike) Miller, Marian (Eric) Gustafson, and Richard (Sue) Braun, along with many nieces, nephews, friends, and other loved ones who will miss her dearly.

She is preceded in death by her parents and grandson Ryan Kai McDonald.

Private family services will be held in the near future. Memorials in Virginia’s honor are deeply appreciated and may be made payable to Michelle McDonald. Donations can be mailed or delivered to Cesarz, Charapata & Zinnecker Funeral Home, 237 N. Moreland Blvd, Waukesha, WI 53188, where they will be forwarded to the family.

Virginia’s legacy of care, faith, creativity, and quiet strength will live on in all who were blessed to know her.