Benjamin Joseph Kowalski

Retired Commander

US Coast Guard

Benjamin Joseph Kowalski of Southbury, formerly of Newtown, died January 11 after a long struggle with dementia. He was born May 4, 1920, in Jamesport, N.Y.  

Mr Kowalski was a commander (ret) in the United States Coast Guard. He enlisted in the service in 1943 in response to the war effort. One of his earliest assignments was Lt JG on the LST-327, one of the ships used to transport men and vehicles in the Normandy Invasion. Mr Kowalski reenlisted after the war and ended his prestigious military career as captain of the port (Manhattan) New York, one of highest operational positions in the Coast Guard.

Education was one of his top priorities; he excelled in required Coast Guard Academy exams and continued to pursue courses from local colleges throughout the remainder of his life.  He enjoyed working with his hands and could build or fix most anything. His favorite pastimes included boating, fishing, and all other activities associated with the water.

Mr Kowalski also excelled in construction design and supervision for several architects. His most recent employer was Boehringer Ingelheim of Ridgefield.

His loving wife Sheila Kowalski, his daughter Karen Fleming of Vienna, Va., and his son Dan Kowalski of Laurel, N.Y., his brother Adam Kowalski of South Windsor and his sister Rose Hardison of Jamesport, N.Y., and a granddaughter survive Mr Kowalski.

A Mass of Christian Burial took place January16. Burial was in Riverhead, L.I.

Memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, Connecticut Chapter, 279 New Britain Road, Suite 5, Kensington CT  06037 or at alzct.org.

Carpino Funeral Home, Southbury was in charge of arrangements.

The Newtown Bee        January 20, 2012