Frederick Chowanec

Fredrick Chowanec passed away at the age of 91 on March 29, 2026, at his home in Columbia, CT. He was the loving husband of Rosemary (St. Hilaire) Chowanec.

Fred was born on March 19, 1935, in Hartford, CT to the late Harry Chowanec and Alice (Evans) Chowanec. He was also predeceased by a sister Marjorie (Chowanec) Smith and brother-in-law Jim Smith.

Fred worked for Pratt & Whitney in East Hartford CT before moving on to work for the University of Connecticut’s fire department as a fire fighter. He was a proud Veteran serving in the US Army stationed in Oklahoma and then Germany. Fred often spent his leisure time either deep sea fishing or deer hunting.

He leaves behind his wife of 71 years, Rosemary (St. Hilaire) Chowanec, his two children Rick Chowanec of Columbia, CT, Kathy (Chowanec) and husband Walt Smolenski of Colchester CT, 4 grandchildren; Megan (Tim) Messenger of Webster, MA, Rachel (Hogan) Kaney of Orangeburg, SC, William (Lilly) Chowanec of Pelzer, SC, and Evan (Julia) Chowanec of Lakenheath US Air Force Base in England, eight great-grandchildren and 1 on the way. A niece and several nephews along with many cousins.

Calling hours will be held on Monday, April 6, 2026, from 4:00pm- 6:00pm at Potter Funeral Home 456 Jackson St. Willimantic, CT. The family will hold a burial at a later date.

Donations in honor of Fred can be made to The Columbia Fire Department, 167 Route 66, Box 26, Columbia, CT 06237.