Eugene “Gene” Richard Kowalczyk
USAF Chief Master Sgt. (ret)
Martinez, GA –Surrounded by his family, Mr. Eugene “Gene” Richard Kowalczyk, 77, entered into rest at his residence on Sunday, June 10, 2012 after a nine month battle with cancer. He was a loving husband of 54 years to Fern Weaver Kowalczyk.
Gene is a native of Oconto, WI and, despite traveling and living all over the world, he never ceased to be a staunch Green Bay Packer fan. Gene served his country for 24 years in the USAF with tours of duty in the US as well as Europe and South East Asia. He attended the USAF Senior NCO Academy and was a semi-finalist for the Tactical Air Command nominee for Senior Airman of the Year. He was awarded a prestigious award for his innovative suggestion regarding repair procedures on Jet Engines.
Upon retirement from the USAF he began his second career as a Project Manager for General Electric then completed his working career as outside Sales Manager for Deutsch Metal Components (Permaswage USA).
Gene was beloved by family, friends, and co-workers for his personable warmth and humor. His unconditional kindness and generosity was a cherished gift to all who had the good fortune to know and love him.
Gene was a member of West Lake Country Club for 16 years where he was currently serving on the Board of Directors. He was a member of St. Mary on the Hill Catholic where he served as Sacristan and Perpetual Adorer of the Blessed Sacrament.
Family members in addition to his wife include daughters: Tamra Hightower (Stephen) of Martinez, GA, Shirlyn Cummings (Clark) of Houston, TX; son: Steven Gene Kowalczyk of Evans, GA; 11 grandchildren; 1 great-grandchild on the way who will bear his name, Natalie “Gene” Kowalzcyk; 3 brothers; 3 sisters. Eugene Richard Kowalczyk was preceded in death by parents: Tony and Elizabeth Kowalczyk; brothers: Vernon and Alexander Kowalczyk and granddaughter: Vicki Anne Kowalczyk.
Funeral mass will be held Thursday, June 14, 2012 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Mary on the Hill Catholic Church with Rev. Gerald Ragan celebrant. Interment with US Air Force Honor Guard will follow at Westover Memorial Park. Honorary Pallbearers: John Hayes, Dr. Malcom Page, Dr. Bob Brown, John Guierrera, Ron Patterson, Bill Glidden, Michael Sommers, Tony Price, Greg Hightower, Marc Wilson and Ron Bielewicz.
In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to American Cancer Society, 2607 Commons Blvd, Augusta, GA 30909 or to Trinity Hospice, 2803 Wrightsboro Road, Suite 38, Augusta, GA 30909.
The family wishes to thank Dr. Paul Fisher, Dr. Michael Edwards, Dr. David Squires, 4 South of GHSU and Trinity Hospice.
The Vigil and family visitation for the deceased will be held on Wednesday evening from 5:00 until 7:00 p.m. at Thomas Poteet & Son Funeral Directors, 214 Davis Rd., Augusta, GA 30907 (706) 364-8484. Please sign the guestbook at www.thomaspoteet.com