Paul Kowack

North Stonington - Paul Kowack, born in Oceanside, N.Y., was a cherished son of Frank and Amelia Kowack and a devoted brother to Rosemary (Kowack) Carlton and Frank Kowack, both deceased, and to Bill Kowack of North Carolina.

Paul's early years were spent at St. Christopher's School, followed by Xavier High School in Manhattan, where his Jesuit education deepened his faith. He earned a mechanical engineering degree from Lowell Technological Institute in 1967, and soon after married the love of his life, Martha Melina Reidy of Lowell, daughter of Arthur and Dorothy Reidy, in June of that same year.

Paul and Martha began their life together in Connecticut, settling in North Stonington more than 50 years ago.

His distinguished engineering career began at Electric Boat, where he worked on valve design for the USS Skipjack (SSN-585). He later joined United Nuclear Corporation, advancing in nuclear reactor design, earning his professional engineer license, and completing an M.B.A. at the University of New Haven. Paul's expertise led him to Custom Marine Industries as vice president, overseeing specialized ballast and metal valve systems. Before retiring, he founded Alliance Engineering, a consulting firm sought after by companies nationwide for his technical mastery.

Beyond his professional achievements, Paul was a pillar of his community. He served as a baseball coach, CCD instructor, math tutor, catechist, Eucharistic minister, and lector at St. Thomas More Church. His civic contributions included 20 years with the North Stonington Lions Club, treasurer of the Coast Guard Academy Parents Association, grant writer for town projects, and Third Selectman of North Stonington. In his spare time, Paul enjoyed golf and relaxing at his cabana at Seaside Beach Club in Rhode Island. Paul was a Yankees season ticket holder for many years, played his music loud enough for the neighbors to enjoy and often joined in with his harmonica. Paul's wit, warmth, and brilliance made him unforgettable, an engineer who paired precision with humor and a generosity of spirit that touched all who knew him.

Paul is survived by his beloved wife, Martha; and their six children: Eric Paul Kowack (San Diego, Calif.), Christine M. (Kowack) Schofield (Washington, D.C.), Maryse K. (Kowack) Newton (York, Maine), Emily C. (Kowack) Kuhn-Lodge (Pawcatuck), Kjerstan T. (Kowack) Fonzi (Sedona, Ariz.), and Margeaux A. Kowack-Servedio (Sandy, Utah). He was a proud mentor to sons and daughters-in-law: Stephanie, Douglas, Tim, Dave, David and Tony; and grandfather to 13 grandchildren, whose lives he enriched with unwavering support and love.

Visiting hours will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 17, in the Gaffney-Dolan Funeral Home, Westerly, R.I. A Funeral Liturgy will be at 11 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 18, at St. Thomas More Church, North Stonington. Burial will follow in St. Michael Cemetery, Pawcatuck.

Paul's legacy of faith, family and service will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. For online condolences, please visit www.gaffneydolanfuneralhome.com.