Nicholas Michael (“Mickey”) Kowalsky, age 91, born and raised in Chicago, longtime resident of Elmhurst, Illinois and adoring husband of Anne May Kowalsky, nee Macejak, passed away on Wednesday, June 24, 2020, surrounded by his Children and Grandchildren.
Born on September 9, 1928 and preceded in death to the parents of Carl and Rose Kowalsky. He was the sixth of seven children, survived by sisters Ann Gillespie and Mary Bensfield and preceded in death by Tina, John, Carl and Rose.
Nick was an entrepreneur from a young age, collecting bottles for coin, shining shoes, working at a fish house with his best friend Gene, and then opened his own business in Greektown, which continued until retirement.
He was a very driven and extremely hardworking young man whose impressive qualities caught the eye of Anne who grew up in the same neighborhood and later became his High School sweetheart at Harrison High. Little did they know they would marry July 23, 1955 at Epiphany of Our Lord, once Nick returned from World War II. After honeymooning in Niagara Falls, their love story and family began to grow with the birth of Linda Ann (Doug) Moore, Mark Nicholas (Mary Jo), Marsha Marie (Michael) O’Connor and Gregory Michael (Kelly). With four children in tow, they moved from Chicago and purchased their first home in Elmhurst, across the street from his best friend since three years old.
He loved to get the kids in the car, smoking his cigar, and drive on endless vacations to the Wisconsin Dells, Michigan Dunes, Starved Rock, Yellowstone and Mackinaw Island. After retirement, he was excited to spend time watching his own children’s families grow. He was a loving Grandpa to Ryan (Kristen), Tina (Michael), Shannon (Nick), Eric (Katie), Brendan, Alex, Lisa (Joe) and Kyle. His eyes lit up when he got to see his three Great Grandchildren born and call him Papa Nick. He never knew he could love more than he already did and was so thankful for the time he spent with Julianna, Cash and Declan.
Nick was a truly caring and big hearted man. He showed unconditional love for his wife for 58 years and did all he could to provide for his children. He wanted nothing more than for his family to be happy, healthy and enjoy life together. He will be truly missed by all who knew him, especially his nieces and nephews and his wonderful neighbors on Park Avenue.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Parkinson Disease Association, 135 Parkinson Avenue, Staten Island, NY 10305
Arrangements handled by Gibbons Funeral Home, Elmhurst. 630-832-0018 or www.gibbonsfuneralhome.com
Click Here for the Livestream of Services beginning at 11:30 a.m. on Monday, June 29, 2020 https://iframe.dacast.com/b/128399/c/553404
Joseph Vanco
We are very sad to hear of the passing o Mr Kowalsky. He and his family were the best friends and neighbors anyone could have growing up in Elmhurst. We will always cherish the countless, fond memories of Mr. K. and family!
Gordon McGregor
Mr. Kowalsky was a pillar of our neighborhood and I never heard him utter an unkind word to anyone. He was a true exemplar of the Greatest Generation and will be greatly missed.
Janelle Beedle
Mark and Mary Jo, my sincere condolences for your loss. May your memories of him provide you with some comfort in this dark time. Love, Janelle
Debbie Tharp
Marsha, Mike, and family so sorry to hear about your Dad’s passing . He truly sounded like a wonderful man. Thoughts and prayers are with you. An old friend from the past,
Debbie Darley
Bob Cronin
Marsha we send our condolences for the loss of your father, a true gentlemen. He was always so nice to us and had a words of wisdom. God bless him and your entire family. Bob & Beverly Cronin