Obituary of JOHN MIKE KOWASKI

John Mike Kowaski 1936-2020 Obituary of John Kowaski April 2, 1936 – April 11, 2020 It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of John Kowaski at the age of 84, dear husband, father, brother and grandfather on April 11, 2020 surrounded by his family. He will be sadly missed by his wife Jean of 60 years, son Randy (Sheila), daughter Kim Kantyluk (Mike), his grandchildren Diandra (Mark), Aynsley, Daniel (Sarah), Erin (Michael) and Jeremy. He is also survived by his sister Marg, brother Jerry (Sharon), nieces, nephews and extended family members. He was predeceased by his parents Mike and Caroline; sister Stella and brothers Stan and Donnie. Sadly, they also lost 2 sons Greg in 1981 and Chris in 1988 to cancer, who they dearly missed. John was born in the Hazel Dell, Sask. area, living his childhood on the family farm. Later, he left home to work for Parrish Farms, Acorn Construction, working on the highways and Frams Plumbing & Heating as a plumber. He met the love of his life and was married in October 1959 where they lived in Preeceville, Sask. In 1963 they moved to Winnipeg to raise their family and continue his career as a plumber with Qualico Developments retiring after 40 years of service. John and his family spent many summers and long weekends returning back home to Saskatchewan to visit family in Preeceville, Lintlaw and Hazel Dell at the Kowaski farm enjoying bbqs and sharing good times. Their home celebrated many occasions but his garage was his favorite place to spend time repairing things, restoring old cars, family fish fries and just unwinding with a drink with family and friends. He also took pride in his diecast classic car collection, always looking for that special one. John loved the outdoors, going hunting with the guys, camping and fishing with the family. He also spent many hours fishing with his honey and graciously losing his loonie for the “1st fish” caught. He was especially proud of his Master Angler Awards over the years. They had great times heading to Mexico in the winters with family and friends. The summers were spent at Lee River playing horseshoes and happy hours with the gang. He was very proud to work alongside his son Randy for many years during his plumbing career. After retirement, he enjoyed watching his grandchildren play many hockey and soccer games throughout the years. He was a proud member of the Knights of Columbus and enjoyed singing in the choir at St. Gerard Parish with his many friends. His honorary pallbearers will be his grandchildren Daniel, Erin, Jeremy Kantyluk and Diandra and Aynsley Kowaski. The family would like to express their sincere appreciation to the staff at Maples and Kildonan PCH for the care and compassion they provided John and his family. Thank you to Father Greg for his spiritual guidance. A small family service will take place on Saturday, April 18, 2020. Interment will take place at Transcona Cemetery at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to CancerCare Manitoba Foundation.