JOHN KOWALSKI

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JOHN KOWALSKI It is with great sadness we announce that John Kowalski, after a full and creative life, passed away at the age of 91 years with his family at his side, at the Concordia General Hospital on Friday, August 9, 2002. He will be greatly missed by his daughters, Bernice Lindsay, Iris Saunby; son, Richard Kowalski (Arlene) numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren; sisters, Josie Taras, Rosie Solinski and Mary Sherba. He was predeceased by his wife Rose in January 1997; parents Mary and Peter Kowalski; sister, Carol; and brothers, Mike, Edward and Kasmir (Ken). John was born and raised at his parents farm in Oakbank, MB on March 6, 1911. John and Rose were married on November 9, 1935 and spent 61 wonderful years together. John and Rose farmed in Oakbank for the first 15 years of their life together and in 1950 they moved with their three children to Transcona where he pursued his carpentry career full time. John started his carpentry career with Clayton Construction Company, moving on as Job Superintendent of S. D. Burton Construction Company and finally starting his own business, Columbia Construction Company Limited. John was a dedicated worker and his family was extremely proud of his accomplishments, particularly the construction of many urban and rural schools. John retired at the age of 65 and was able to return to his love of farming when he purchased a hobby farm at Milner Ridge. His farm became a family gathering centre for his children and grandchildren who cherish many fond memories of riding snowmobiles, horses and trikes. John spent many hours enjoying nature and tending the horses and cattle which kept him very young at heart. Even at the age of 80, John could be found planting 80 acres of wheat on the farm. John will be truly missed and remembered in the hearts of his family and friends. Prayers will be said at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, August 13 in Klassen Funeral Chapel, 1897 Henderson Hwy. A funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, August 14, also in Klassen Funeral Chapel, with the Rev. Fr. Gerry Ward officiating. Following a reception in Klassen Funeral Chapel, interment will take place in Pineridge Cemetery, Birds Hill Park. Flowers are gratefully accepted, however, if friends or family wish, memorial contributions may be made in Johns memory to a charity of choice. Arrangements entrusted to Klassen Funeral Chapel, 338-0331.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Aug 12, 2002