Bernard "Bernie" Kowalski

Bernard (Bernie) Kowalski passed away on Saturday, April 4, 2026 surrounded by loved ones. Born the son of the late Benjamin and Sophie (Ryba) Kowalski on March 21, 1941, he is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 63 years, Carole (Rebout) Kowalski. He was the father of the late Kenneth Kowalski. He is survived by Kenneth’s wife, Donna and his grandchildren: Kristyn Kowalski (partner, Scott), Kevin Kowalski (wife, Heather), and Rebecca Kowalski (partner, Ben). Bernie was recently blessed with a great granddaughter, Wren, which thrilled him so much. Bernie was predeceased by his sisters Dolores Draski and Esther Gronski.

Originally from Chicago, Bernie met his wife, Carole, and they settled into a life filled with the joy of family. Bernie had recently shared that raising his family with Carole was one of the proudest moments of his life that he would have done all over again without hesitation. Before departing, Bernie was able to express his heartfelt love and appreciation for his family and for all that he enjoyed.

Known for his very strong work ethic, Bernie maintained a long tenure in the trucking industry having started at entry level and working his way up the career ladder with various companies. His jobs took him back-and-forth from Chicago to New Jersey to North Carolina before settling in Durham, Connecticut. He maintained a long affiliation with the International Brotherhood of Teamsters before retiring from the trucking industry in 2011 as president of Bailey’s Express in Middletown. A lover of sports, Bernie was an avid fan of his hometown, Chicago Bears, as well as the UConn Women’s Basketball Team. Bernie was an accomplished traveler and enjoyed manicuring his yard and garden areas. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be sent to the Pulmonary Hypertension Association, 1121 14th St. NW, Suite 150, Washington D.C., 20005

Calling hours will be held on Friday April 17, 2026, from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm, at Swan Funeral Home, 1224 Boston Post Road, Old Saybrook, CT 06475