Carol (Cookie) Kowalski

Carol "Cookie" Kowalski went home to be with her Beloved Jesus on April 23, 2019. Although from a young age Carol faced physical limitations which resulted in the challenge of living in chronic pain each day, she was determined to overcome and live life to its fullest. For those who knew her, she was a generous, caring, and loving woman known for her love for the Lord, zest for life, sense of humor, and her amazing creativity for decorating and sewing. She was always willing to show kindness and befriend strangers, and did not shy away from sharing her faith with others. She had the gift of gab, comfortably mingling in whatever crowd she found herself in. In talking to Carol, it would not take long to realize her family was the apple of her eye. She counted herself blessed to have a wonderful husband who loved her and selflessly provided for the family. She beamed with pride over the accomplishments of her children, and affectionately adored her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Over the years, Carol also loved to serve her church family by planning, coordinating, and decorating for ministry events. From making costumes for plays to preparing the food and providing elegant décor for church banquets, Carol strived for excellence whenever she was called upon to help make things special for others.

For fun and leisure, Carol enjoyed going out to eat, gardening, reading, old movies, and mostly, spending time with family and friends---not to mention, she loved to talk on the phone! An ideal day for Carol would have been sitting in her flower garden with her family as they enjoyed a feast of crab legs on a table covered in newspaper. In her heart, Carol was a world traveler who loved the idea of visiting exotic locations, yet was unable to fulfill that dream. Instead, one would only have to visit her to realize that Carol was able to bring those places to home through her passion for decorating.

The legacy she leaves her family and friends is the example of victoriously persevering through the difficulties of life. Her fiery spirit and her ornery persistence fueled her insatiable desire to not be defeated by the limitations of her body. She taught her family how to make the most out of a little, to never give up despite the challenges, and to make sure they laughed along the way.

Carol will be extremely missed by all those who loved her. In memory of her, the family is requesting donations be made to Hartland Royal Family Kids Camp where your gift will continue to make an eternal impact in the lives of others just as Carol did for so many. (click on charities to give or click on the link provided) https://my.e360giving.com/app/Giving/oakw3041284

Carol is survived by her loving husband Donald, her five children: Julie Holzli (Scott), John Walls (Renee), Jay Walls (Erica), Donald Kowalski (Jo), and Kris Holl, her brother Ralph (Bud) Morrow, her nineteen grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her parents Albert and Mary Morrow, her four siblings Al, Bill, Irene, and Mary Lou, and her great-grandson Gideon.