Rev. James C. Kowalski

Dear Kowalski Family,

Being out of Michigan, I learned just today of the death of "Father Jim." He was a great man, and as others have said, a gentle soul. When he took over during Father Ernie's sabbatical from St. Paul the Apostle, I think some of us wondered how he would "compete." Though his style was very different from Father Ernie's, it wasn't long before he won us all over with his compassion, his reverence and his sometimes irreverent wit! We loved him for all of these...

We have wonderful memories of Fr. Jim. He was so kind and always willing to come to Toledo from his very busy schedule and say Mass at our family weddings, anniversaries, and funerals. It was always a joy and pleasure to have him, "Our Own Special Priest" at our family gatherings. We will miss him.

Father Jim officiated at the Baptisms of our son, Jakob, in 1999, and our daughter, Anne, in 2001, at St. Robert of Newminster. We will always remember his kindness and gentle care of our family. Our sincerest sympathy to your family, and prayers for a beautiful welcome for him in Heaven.

Our family was saddened to see that Father Jim had passed away at such a 'young' age. It's been quite a few years since we last saw him, but we always loved his gentle and kind ways when he was the priest at St. Mary Magdalen in Kentwood. He resided over our 2 sons' first communions. We remember how sad we were when he left the parish. He will be missed by all who were fortunate to know him. Our sympathy and condolences to his family and friends.

Fr. Jim will be remembered as a gentle soul,a good teacher and advisor, a friend always with humor. My thoughts and prayers to family.

Father Jim's ready smile and twinkling eye always lifted our spirits. The occasional shared glasses of red wine are cherished memories of happy times.
Our world already misses this wonderful man.

Father Jim will be remembered by the many quiet and hidden acts of charity he did, and inspire us to do likewise.

My sympathies to your family. My Mom, A.J. Daniels was a good friend for your Mom, Florence. Mom died in July at age 90, we were blessed to have her so many years. Our prayers will be with all of the family as you grieve the loss of your brother.