Joseph John Kowalkowski

Joseph Kowalkowski’s love of life didn’t come to an end with his death. Joseph passed away on May 22, 2022 at the age of 59 after a courageous battle with cancer, surrounded by loved ones who will continue to honor his legacy by living their lives to the fullest. Joseph, who liked to be called Joe, was born in Długopole, Poland to the late Stefan and Antonia (nee Ryt) Kowalkowski. Joe met the love of his life, Debbie (nee Hoeltzer) while camping with a youth group in the summer of 1983. Joe married Debbie on December 30th, 1989. They enjoyed 32 years of marriage, where they brought four beautiful children into the world. Joe’s greatest accomplishments are his children; Joseph (Jessica) Kowalkowski, Bryan (Nicole) Kowalkowski, Sarah Kowalkowski, and Hannah Kowalkowski. Joe deeply loved his granddaughter, Lillian Grace Kowalkowski, who he would spend time watching movies with whenever they were together. A brother to Stan (Mary) Kowalkowski, uncle to Patricia, Theresa, and Michael Kowalkowski, son-in-law to Charlain Hoeltzer, brother-in-law to Arthur Hoeltzer, and a beloved cousin, uncle, and friend to many, Joe was able to make all those in his life feel how much he loved and cared for them through all of their interactions.
Joe completed his Bachelor’s degree at DePaul University. He worked in the banking industry for over 35 years and most recently was an Operations Manager for JPMorgan Chase & Co. Joe took pride in his work ethic, and ensured he shared his passion for growth and dedication with his children.
The simplest pleasures in life brought great joy to Joe. Growing up in Poland, Joe ensured his love of his heritage was laced throughout his life, even participating in a Polish dance group called Wesoly Lud, where he created many lifelong friendships. On a beautiful day, Joe could be found working on his garden, eager to show off the latest fruit or veggie sprouting, while also sharing a few freshly grown treats with his dogs. Joe was known for his love of fantasy sports, spending hours researching and drafting every sport he could. Although he loved all sports, Joe’s love of the Chicago Cubs was truly unmatched. When he wasn’t drafting the next greatest team, you could find Joe fishing or going on nature walks. Joe loved spending time outdoors, frequenting the “Little Red Schoolhouse”, where he brought his children and grandchild. If you knew Joe, you would know that the greatest time spent was when he was with his family. Joe was a devoted family man; whether it be driving hours for a simple 15 minute drop off or taking the cars for their oil change, Joe was always willing to stop what he was doing when the phone rang. If you knew Joe, you knew that he would move mountains for his wife and children.
Joe was a quiet constant, always with a smile, dependable and kind. Joe’s family is sadden by the loss of a truly great husband and dad. He leaves behind a beautiful wife and family—his testament to his success as a husband, father, and papa.
The family will receive friends at Kurtz Memorial Chapel 102 E. Francis Rd, New Lenox on Thursday, May 26, 2022, from 3pm – 9pm. Funeral Services Friday, May 27, 2022, with prayers at the funeral home at 9:15am to St. Mary Catholic Church, Mokena, IL for Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00am. Entombment to follow at Good Shepherd Catholic Cemetery, Orland Park, IL.