04/18/2026
Rev. Robert W. Wardenski
Rev. Robert W. Wardenski, esteemed Pastor Emeritus of Immaculate Conception Roman Catholic Church in East Aurora, New York, passed away on April 18, 2026, at the age of 79. Born on June 28, 1946, he dedicated his life to faith, service, and the spiritual guidance of his community.
A devoted servant of the Church, Rev. Wardenski's tenure at Immaculate Conception was marked by unwavering commitment, compassion, and leadership. His pastoral care touched countless lives, fostering a strong and nurturing parish community throughout his years of ministry.
He was the beloved son of the late Caroline (nee Slomba) and Walter Wardenski. He was also the devoted brother of the late Constance, the late Rosemarie, and the late Michael Wardenski. Though many of his immediate family members have preceded him in passing, he is survived by numerous cousins and friends who cherished his warmth and wisdom.
Friends and parishioners are invited to pay their respects on Thursday, April 23, from 4 to 8 PM, and Friday, April 24, from 9 to 10 AM at Immaculate Conception Roman Catholic Church, located at 520 Oakwood Avenue, East Aurora, NY 14052. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, April 24, at 10 AM, presided by Most Reverend Michael W. Fisher, Bishop of Buffalo.
Born on Buffalo’s East Side, Rev. Robert W. Wardenski—affectionately known as “Fr. Bob”—felt called to the priesthood during his high school years. He attended Holy Apostles SS. Peter & Paul Elementary School in Buffalo, Bishop Ryan High School, and later St. John Vianney Seminary in East Aurora, continuing his formation at Christ the King Seminary.
Ordained in 1972, Fr. Bob began what he fondly described as living “over the store” in the rectories he served as the parish priest across Western New York. His first assignment was as Parochial Vicar at St. Adalbert’s Basilica in 1972, followed by service at St. James Church in Buffalo from 1972–1977, St. Francis of Assisi Church from 1977–1982, and St. Rose of Lima in 1982. He returned to St. James Church from 1983–1988 and briefly served at St. Paul’s Church in 1988.
Fr. Bob then became pastor of St. Peter’s Church in LeRoy, his first pastorate, where he served until 1999. He continued his pastoral ministry at St. William’s Church until 2005, before being called to Immaculate Conception Parish in East Aurora—despite never imagining he would return there after seminary.
During his Eighteen years at Immaculate Conception, staff collaboration has become a hallmark. “The expectation is that we will work together as a team,” he said. Even if staff members have different ideas, they work toward a common goal: preaching the Gospel in a way that makes it real.
A gifted preacher, Fr. Bob spent each week preparing through study, reflection, and observation rather than writing out homilies. Guided by the Holy Spirit, he often heard from parishioners that his words spoke directly to their lives. He found great joy in presiding over the liturgy, striving to make each celebration meaningful and inspiring, always hoping to make the presence of Jesus real and comforting to others.
Known for his humility, warm sense of humor, and signature white mustache, Fr. Bob lived with deep trust in God’s plan. “If God wants me there, I’ll go there,” he often said, reflecting his faith-filled approach to ministry.
Fr. Bob celebrated the 53rd anniversary of his ordination on May 27, 2025, describing his priesthood as “53 years of adventure.” Beyond parish life, he served the wider Church as a member of the Diocesan Finance Council, the Diocesan Priest Council, the Board of Directors at Christ the King Seminary, and the Knights of St. John.
Fr. Bob's legacy endures in the hearts of all who knew him and in the community he so lovingly served. We invite you to honor his memory by sharing a picture or a favorite story in our online Guest Book on the Tribute page. Through these shared memories, his enduring spirit will continue to inspire and uplift us all.
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