Winifred Mae Kowalski

Winifred (Winnie) Mae Kowalski, born on November 20, 1935, in Chicago, Illinois, passed away peacefully on September 6, 2025, in Daytona Beach, Florida. A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister and aunt, Winnie dedicated her life to her family, creating a legacy of love and support that will endure through the generations.

Winnie's professional journey began at Proctor and Gamble in Chicago. Shortly after she married her sweetheart, Henry Kowalski, on September 15, 1956, which marked the beginning of a beautiful marriage that lasted until Henry's passing in 2020. In 1959, Winnie and Henry relocated to South Florida where Winnie held various roles throughout her career. She initially worked as a waitress in numerous local restaurants and eventually became a Paraprofessional with the Broward County School District from where she earned the prestigious award for Paraprofessional of the Year. Not only did she make a lasting impact on her fellow co-workers, she dedicated herself to enriching the lives of countless students along the way.

Winnie was not only academically accomplished, graduating in the top of her class as valedictorian from Steinmetz High School, where she was honored with the American Legion Award, but she also embodied a caring, loving personality. She held family close to her heart, always prioritizing the well-being and happiness of her husband and children. Her life revolved around her loved ones, and the beautiful memories she created with them. Winnie loved going to theme parks and riding all the roller coasters. She was fearless!  She also loved going to the beach, playing cards and games (always winning her fair share!) and later in life developed a passion for reading. 

Winnie is survived by her loving children, Keith (Julie), Ken (Candy), Kraig (Galina), Karen (Leigh), Kari (Jerry) and daughter-in-law Nancy. Her legacy continues through her grandchildren: Steve (Michon), Nick (Haley), Cody, Savannah (Cameron), Amy, Spencer, Kraig Jr (Maria), Kyle, Melissa (Patrick), Brandon, and Madison (Jacob), as well as her great-grandchildren: Gray, Wyatt, Miller, Georgia, Brooklyn, Coleson, Oliver, Skylar, Carter, and Colton. She is also survived by her siblings, Dorothy Small and Tom (Joyce) Jurek, who will remember their sister's warmth and kindness.

Winnie was preceded in death by her cherished husband, Henry Kowalski; her son, Kevin Kowalski; her grandson, Ryan Kowalski; and her parents, Thomas and Margaret Jurek. 

A visitation in honor of Winifred Mae Kowalski will be held on September 22, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at T. M. Ralph Plantation Funeral Home in Plantation, Florida. The graveside service will follow at Lauderdale Memorial Park, beginning at 1:30 PM.

Her memory will forever live on in the hearts of her family and friends