Newtonville- Edwin J. Kowaleski, 82, passed away peacefully at home with his family by his side on Thursday, February 8, 2018, after a courageous battle with cancer. Born March 31, 1935 in Albany, NY to Leonard and Pauline Kowaleski who met in this area after separately emigrating from Poland. Edwin was a 1953 graduate of Watervliet High School, enlisting in the U.S. ARMY shortly after. He was a proud veteran of the Korean War.

Ed married his beloved wife Mary Ann (Saurack) on May 14, 1960. They enjoyed 57 loving years together. Ed was proud of each of his children, Melinda, Amy, David (Kathy) and Keith (Andrea),and the kindness, joy and love he received from them. Some of his greatest joys were with his grandchildren, Alexa and Ava Jakusovszky, Sarah and Emma Kowaleski, and Kameron and Josephine Kowaleski. He loved the title Grandpa, and also “Papa”, chosen by the two youngest.

Ed worked for Niagara Mohawk for 38 years, enjoying many friendships that he made there. He was a member of the Niagara Mohawk 25 Year Club, lifetime member of Polish American Club, and VFW 729 in Watervliet. After his retirement, he worked part time for Manheim auto auction for 22 years.
In addition to his employment, Ed cherished his time spent at his family’s farmhouse and barn that he was so fond of. He was also a loving, dedicated caregiver for his mother until her death at 102.

Ed is predeceased by his parents, his beloved brother “Lenny”, his infant son Michael Edwin, and his in-laws, Walter and Jane Saurack.

In addition to children and grandchildren, Ed is survived by a sister-in-law, Helen Kowaleski, brother-in-law Walter Saurack (Carole) and their family.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Ed’s name to, Veteran’s Miracle Center 10 Interstate Ave. Albany, NY 12205

Calling hours will be held on Monday, February 12, 2018 from 10:00am-12:00pm at New Comer Cremations & Funerals, 181 Troy Schenectady Road, Watervliet, New York 12189. A funeral service will follow the calling hours starting at 12:00pm. Interment will be held at Immaculate Conception Cemetery.