Obituary of Richard Eugene Kowalski

Richard Kowalski, 71, of Niles, passed away peacefully at home, on Friday, February 18, 2022. Rick was born on November 11, 1950, to the late Erwin and Victoria (Przekadzki) Kowalski in South Bend. After he graduated from high school Rick attended college and in late 1983 Rick wed his best friend and soulmate, Debra Andrews at a ceremony in Michigan. Richard was a lifelong Notre Dame fan and enjoyed the friendly competition with Debra who was a U of M fan. The two were happily inseparable. He was preceded in death by his parents, Erwin and Victoria Kowalski; sons, Derek and Matthew Kowalski; and his sister Patricia Kowalski. Rick is survived by his wife of nearly 40 years, Debra Andrews; daughter, Melissa (Robert Valentic) Kowalski of Niles; seven granddaughters; one great-granddaughter; sister, Barb DeVos of South Bend; daughter-in-law, Alyssia Collins of Elkhart; and many extended family members and close friends. A time of visitation will be held on Wednesday, February 23, 2022, at Brown Funeral Home & Cremation Services in Niles from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m.