KOWAL, Jerry Allen, Jr.

The White Mountain Independent, Show Low, Arizona ~ September 13, 2007 Jerry Allen Kowal Jr., 53, of Linden entered into heaven Sept. 10, 2007. "We love you with all our hearts and will miss you immensely." He was born Jan. 4, 1954, in Chicago, Ill., the oldest of three children. Jerry was best known for his keen sense of humor, vast knowledge and wise counsel combined with a loving and generous heart. He was always there to help his family and friends for which they are forever grateful. He was a well-respected plumber who took much pride in building the Show Low High School along with his family. In his youth, he was an avid hockey player, a great goalie who rarely let a puck go by. He loved singing karaoke and was best known locally as "Elvis." When he sang, he took your breath away with his beautiful voice. He was very proud of his Polish and Norwegian heritage. He especially loved all holidays and enjoyed preparing a delicious, traditional feast just to see all the smiling faces. He also enjoyed snow skiing, camping, fishing, the outdoors, coaching Little League for both his sons, the Phoenix Suns and Chicago Bears and playing practical jokes with kids. He mastered and loved playing poker. Fond memories were always made on travels to Laughlin and Wolf Creek. He was a dedicated Catholic who had a deep spiritual faith in God. Three nights before his last breath, he was healed from his pain at a healing service at St. Francis Catholic Church in Whiteriver. He devoted his life to his beloved wife, Patty Kowal, his faithful mother, June Kowal, his loving children, Jerry Kowal III (Patty Codick), Maggie Kowal, Annamarie Sanchez and Cheyenne and Cody Lester. He will be fondly remembered by his sister, Kim Mauer (Ron); his six beautiful grandchildren, Breana, Veronica, Adrianna, Keenan, Kylie and Cassandra; his aunt, Betty Olsen; Patty's family, his local cat "Putty," along with many cousins, nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, Jerry Kowal Sr., his brother, Steve Kowal, and his uncle, Bob Olsen. Family and friends are invited to honor Jerry's life at 11 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 15, at St. Mary of the Angels Catholic Church in Pinetop with a visitation and rosary service prior to services from 9-11 a.m. Burial will follow at the Lakeside Cemetery. Black's Mortuary of Show Low is handling arrangements. Sign the guest book or offer private condolences at www.blacksmortuary.com.