Obituary of Robert E. Kowalski

Mr. Robert E. Kowalski Sr., age 91, of Amsterdam, passed away on Friday, December 15, 2017 at the Edward L. Wilkinson Residential Healthcare Facility, Amsterdam. Bob was born November 29, 1926 in Amsterdam, the son of the late Stephen and Julia Rutkowski Kowalski. He was a lifelong Amsterdam resident and a graduate of the former Wilbur H. Lynch High School class of 1944. He served in the U.S. Navy during WWII serving aboard the U.S.S. Cross. Bob was employed for many years as a draftsman, first for the American Locomotive Company (ALCO) and then for General Electric, both in Schenectady, until his retirement in 1992. He was a communicant of St. Mary's Roman Catholic Church in Amsterdam. Bob was an avid bowler and bowled in several leagues, including the Friday night Polish League at the former Pin Haven Lanes. His Korona Builders Team set the American Bowling Congress national record for the most games played without an absentee. Bob enjoyed the outdoors, especially fishing and camping. He also enjoyed learning about grape growing and wine tasting during his many trips to the Napa Valley to visit his son. Traveling with his wife and family was always a very special time for him. Bob married Corinne M. Bintz on April 26, 1958. In addition to his loving wife, he is also survived by his children, Karen Auricchio of Amsterdam, Robert E. Kowalski Jr. of Napa, CA, and Andrew R. Kowalski (and his wife Karin) of Wantagh. He also leaves behind three cherished grandchildren: Daniel Auricchio (and his wife Krystle) of Cohoes, Amanda Auricchio of Amsterdam, and Andrew R. Kowalski Jr. of Wantagh; two great-grandchildren, Kennedy and Avery Auricchio; two step-grandchildren, Kate and Michael Hennessy; his brother-in-law, Edward Majewski; and his sister-in-law, Sylvia Kowalski. He is also survived by his nieces and nephews. Bob was predeceased by his brother, William Kowalski; his sister, Phyllis Majewski; and his son-in-law, Richard L. Auricchio. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, December 20, 2017 at 10:15 a.m. at the Betz, Rossi & Bellinger Family Funeral Home, 171 Guy Park Ave, Amsterdam, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:15 a.m. at St. Mary's Church, 156 E. Main St., Amsterdam with Father Jeffrey M. L'Arche, M.S. as celebrant. Military honors will be rendered by the US Navy on Wednesday following the Mass in the church. Private interment will be in St. Mary's Cemetery in Ft. Johnson. The family will receive relatives and friends on Tuesday, December 19, 2017 from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society at www.nationalmssociety.org.