Donald L. Kowalske
July 17, 2016Share using:
Donald L. “Don” Kowalske, 59, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on July 17, 2016 at home.
Funeral mass will be at 10:00 a.m. Thursday, July 21st at St. Anthony Catholic Church with Rev. Steven Rosonke officiating. Burial will follow in Mount Olivet Cemetery. Visitation will be from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Wednesday, July 20th at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road where a wake service will be at 3:00 p.m.
Don was born on March 22, 1957 in Dubuque, Iowa the son of LaVern and Mary (Hansen) Kowalske. He graduated class of 1975 from Dubuque Senior High. He worked for APC (formerly Inland Molasses Co.) since graduating high school until the time of his death.
Don was a man of deep thought and thoughtfulness. Constantly curious about what made things tick and always concerned with the happiness of those close to him. His love for his family was BIG and it was his life. He enjoyed muscle cars, bulldogs, the Denver Broncos and Elvis. His favorite movie was Billy Jack and like its main character he questioned authority and always stood up for the little guy. The movie's slogan, "When you need him, he's always there." is a fitting slogan for Don's life.
He is survived by his wife of 36 years, Patty (Kirby) Kowalske; son, Matthew (Matt) Kowalske; daughter, Brooke (Wendell) Huseman. Three grandchildren: Jude Michael Huseman, Elijah Matthew Huseman, and Payton Marie Kowalske. Brothers: Steve “Ski” Kowalske and Bob Kowalske. Sister: Susan Skay. Many nieces and nephews.
Don was preceded in death by his parents, LaVern and Mary Louise (Hansen) Kowalske.
A Donald Kowalske memorial fund will be established.
The family wishes to thank the University of Wisconsin Madison Hospitals and staff of Transplant Unit.
