Funeral For Face of The Greendale Police & Fire Commission

GREENDALE, WI—Benedict J. Kosmatka died in late December and was laid to rest Friday.

"Ben was known to most of us as the face of the Greendale Police & Fire Commission, President and Secretary for 50 years!!! He was a friend, a mentor and an all-around great guy. He stayed in contact with us after he retired from the Commission, checking in as good friends do," the Village of Greendale Police Department wrote Friday on their Facebook page.

Ben served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. He was the President of Service Tool & Die Co., Inc. until 2000. This company, started by his father, focused on large-scale metal forming deep draw dies. Ben was awarded the distinguished service award in 1981 by the Milwaukee Area Technical College for his long-standing efforts to grow the apprenticeship program in Milwaukee County, according to his obituary.

Ben was most proud of his 50 years of service on the Greendale Police & Fire Commission, where he oversaw the hiring of hundreds of police and fire personnel. He held numerous roles and responsibilities, including the President and Secretary, according to his obituary.

The mass of Christian Burial was held on Friday, January 8, at St. Mary's Catholic Faith Community (9520 W. Forest Home Ave.)