John Kermit Kowalski
September 1, 1951 ~ August 1, 2014
J. Kermit Kowalski, 62, of New Cumberland WV passed away from cancer at his home on Friday August 1, 2014. Following a five month hospital stay, his wife cared for him at home since January of 2013. Kermit was initially diagnosed in 2006.
Born on September 1, 1951, Kermit was the son of Mary Virginia "Jum" Russell Kowalski of Burgettstown, PA, and the late Emile Kowalski. He was also preceded in death by his sister, Ariel Toth.
After over 30 years of service, Kermit retired from Customer Service at US Airways. An avid Steeler fan and staunch Democrat, Kermit enjoyed a good debate with his great friend, Chuckie Capito. He loved to golf and was a two handicap. When it came to entertaining and cooking, Kermit was in his glory. Nothing better than a couple drinks and a good steak, he would say. But his true love of his life was his wife Nancy and his two daughters. He met Nancy on July 4th weekend in 1991, fell in love and the two were married in 1992.
His wife Nancy cared for him at home since January of 2013 following a five month hospital stay .
Kermit was a member of Saint Joseph the Worker Roman Catholic Church, Weirton and the Mountaineer Woodview Golf Course.
He will always be remembered as a guy who got along with everyone, and who could always make you laugh.
In addition to his mother, Jum, Kermit is survived by his loving wife, Nancy Popish Kowalski; his two daughters, Brooke (Jeff) Mayka of Cumming, GA and Kerri Kowalski of Weirton, WV; brothers, Dan (Jackie) Kowalski of College Station, TX, Blas (Julie) Kowalski of Bulger, PA and Michael (Connie) Kowalski of Pittsburgh, PA; his sisters, Jeannie (David) Rodgers of Cherry Valley, PA, Erin (Michael) McKee of Burgettstown, PA and Darras Ann Kowalski of Langloth, PA; two granddaughters, Chloe and Emery Mayka; and a host of good friends and golfing buddies.
Visitation will be 1-3 and 6-8 PM Sunday at the Greco Hertnick Funeral home 3219 Main Street Weirton.
Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 10 AM Monday at Sacred Heart of Mary Roman Catholic Church 200 Preston, Avenue Weirton, WV.
Rev. Fr Manuel Gelido will preside.
Share tributes and memories at www.grecohertnick.com
Nancy , Kerri, Brooke and the rest of the Kowalski Family,
There are no words that anyone can say that will make this hurt go away. Nancy you have been a wonderful nurse to your loving husband, and I am sure the best wife that a man could ever want. I am so glad you found your soulmate in Kermit and though I didnt know him very well, i know that he was a great man, the love of your life , had a great life with you, and your daughters, lots of friends and family and fought a long hard brave battle, you have as well, you all have. Sometimes when I would talk with you I wondered in awe how you could handle all you are going through with a smile on your pretty face, Faith and Hope in your Heart. You did all you could and then some , to help him try to win his fight against his rare cancer. i know you are going to need a lot of strength and support from friends and family as you all go through this very difficult time ahead. I sure wish I could be there to support you , you know I am very close in thoughts and prayers and just a phone call or text away. Hugs and Love you Dear Friend and Kermit will be very sadly missed by family and those who know him best.
Our deepeest sympathy and love to you, Nancy, children and family. we were sad to know of Kermit\’s passing,but know that the love of Our Father will surpass any of his pain and yours! I know he is meeting up with family and friends who have gone before him…RIP Kermit, and save a place for us!
Joe & Cindi Revay
Our deepest sympathy comes from our hearts. Kermit fought a long battle and now he is at peace. May all your fond memories live forever in your hearts. Your family will always be remembered at Wyngate and the entire staff sends our condolences.
God Bless you and your family.
Kermit was one the the most loving fathers I have ever met. Wonderful, kind man, he will be greatly missed by all who new him.
Mrs. Kowalski, Danny and the rest of Kermit’s family, My sincerest condolences to you all with the passing of Kermit. I remember his infectious smile most of all. I know he will be missed by all with whom he knew. I will keep you all in my prayers as you travel through this rough period.
Nancy I would like to extend my condolences to you and to your family. I would have enjoyed being present when Kermit had those “good debates” with Doc C. and tonight I will go out buy a good steak and tip a couple in Kermit’s memory. The Madonna Family is a better group because of the Kowalski family.
God Bless
Nancy, I was so sorry to hear about Kermit. I know the struggles you’ve both endured for so long. You’ve been a strong leaning post & support for him & the entire family. Thoughts & prayers to you all.
Nancy your strength and positive attitude have blessed my life. You love for Kermit made me want to cling to God’s promises. Know you are loved and prayed for in this time
Nancy an Kerri – our deepest sympathies for your loss.
Nancy, you and your family are in our prayers. May God keep you close during these next few days and weeks. We celebrate Kermit’s worldly life and his eternal life. Stan and Becky Luckie
Nancy and Kowalski family, I was so sorry to hear of Kermit’s passing. You have my deepest sympathy and I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers. Love, Cherilynn Morgan
Nancy, our love and prayers for you and your family. Your love, care and strength were a blessing for Kermit and for us. Your late nite txts where so encouraging during the long hospital stay. You have endured much as a wonderful wife. Praying for your comfort and peace. Love and tears. Craig and Kathy
I’m very sorry to hear of this loss. My thoughts and prayers go out to Nancy and family…..
I was so sorry to hear that Kermit had passed away. While I hadn\’t seen him in many years he was a friend and neighbor in Burgettstown when we were young. His family is in my thoughts and prayers.