Gerald Lee Kowalczyk

Gerald L. “Jerry” Kowalczyk, age 72 of Carmichaels, Pa. passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, October 8, 2022 following a lengthy illness.  He was born April 21, 1950 in Waynesburg, Pa. a son of the late Otto Charles and Pearl (Zappone) Kowalczyk.  Jerry grew up in Crucible, Pa. and was a 1968 graduate of Carmichaels High School.  He went on to graduate from California University of Pennsylvania in 1973 with a Bachelor of Science in Economics.  Jerry started his career as an underground coal miner at the Shannopin Coal Company in Bobtown, Pa. and retired in 2013 from Emerald Mine in Waynesburg, Pa.  After retirement he obtained his commercial drivers license and enjoyed driving bus for the Carmichaels Area School District.  Jerry was a sports enthusiast and loved watching the local high school teams, Penn State, WVU and all the Pittsburgh teams.  Jerry gave of his time and knowledge as a coach with local teams in Tee-ball, Little League, Pony League, County and Legion Baseball from 1986 through 2010.  He was an avid golfer and enjoyed playing in the PENN-DOT League at Carmichaels Golf Club or just going out for a round by himself.  He cherished spending time with his friends and family, especially his grandchildren.  On September 25, 1976 he married Janet R. Kovach, who survives.

Also surviving are two sons, Jason Kowalczyk (Jane) of Garards Fort, Pa. and Jamie Kowalczyk (April) of Uniontown, Pa.; three grandchildren, Henry, Duncan and Kit; a brother, Charles “Tuna” Kowalczyk (Sharon) of Carmichaels and a half-brother, John Patchen (Avis) of Crucible; also surviving are several nieces and nephews.  Deceased in addition to his parents is a sister, Denise Clister.

Family and friends are welcome from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday in the Yoskovich Funeral Home, Carmichaels, Pa. where a funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, October 13, 2022 with the Rev. Dayton D. Mix officiating.  Interment will follow in St. Mary's in Crucible.