Walter William Kowaleski

Walter William Kowaleski, age 92, of Brushfork, formerly of Kimball, passed away on Thursday, August 11, 2016 at Princeton Community Hospital. Born on September 15, 1923 in Gary, he was a son of the late Joseph and Stella Rychlik Kowaleski. He had been a resident of Bluefield for 15 years and was formerly of McDowell County. He was a graduate of Elkhorn High School and was of the Catholic faith. He was a veteran of World War II having served in the US Army in the 115th Infantry 29th Division for 3 ½ years. He took part in the second invasion of Omaha Beach on D-Day after the first invasion failed. He was a recipient of the Bronze Star. He was a life member of the VFW Post #9696 in Bluefield, Virginia and Post #8 in Welch. He was a retired construction foreman specializing in concrete work with Corte Construction of Kimball. In addition by his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Louise Kowaleski; and brothers, Charlie Kowaleski and Eddie, Bill, and Chester Kowaleski. He was the last surviving member of his family. Survivors include his daughter, Gail Bays and husband Justin of Bluefield, VA; son, Vincent Kowaleski and wife Sandy of McKinney, TX; and grandchildren; Jonathan Bays, Kayleigh Kowaleski, and Brady Kowaleski; and several nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be conducted on Tuesday, August 16, 2016 at 11:00 AM at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Bluefield with Rev. Father Sebastian Devasi officiating. Burial will follow at Woodlawn Memorial Park in Bluewell. Military honors will be performed by the VFW Post #9696 of Bluefield, VA. Friends and family will serve as pallbearers. Friends may call prior to the services, on Tuesday from 10:00-11:00 AM at the church. In lieu of flowers the family suggests memorial contributions may be made to the Food Pantry at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, PO Box 608, Bluefield, WV 24701. Online condolences will be accepted at www.cravens-shires.com