Robert E. Cowoski, longtime resident of Butler, PA died peacefully at home, surrounded by his family, on February 10th, 2018 at the age of 79, just shy of his 80th birthday.
Bob is survived by his wife of 55 years Carol Joan Cowoski, his children, Chris Cowoski, wife Jill, and their children Shane, Hayley, Dylan and Heston. Robyn Kerschbaumer, husband David, and their children, Taylor and Tanner. Jeffrey Cowoski wife Jennifer, their children Noah, and Kayla (daughter of Jeffrey Cowoski and Sonja Downing). Todd Cowoski, wife Holly and their children, Elijah and Gage; and Allyson Hillwig, husband Johnny. Bob was blessed have been one of fifteen, his surviving siblings include Rose, Connie, Sandy, Debbie, Janie and Cheryl and brothers Joe and Tom. One sister-in-law Judith Moreau and brother-in-law Joe (Skip) Kovach and his wife Katie, along with numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents Alexander and Myrtle, his brothers Al, Jim, Ron, his sisters, Patti, Helen and Barbara and his brother in law, John Moreau.
Bob was born in Fulton Run, PA on April 14, 1938 to Alexander and Myrtle Cowoski. He graduated from Indiana High School and New Castle School of Trade. Beginning their family in 1963, Bob and Joan welcomed five children and ten grandchildren who were the most important part of their lives. They were always sighted at their grandchildren’s various sporting activities.
Bob was employed by Pullman Standard until the permanent closing of the plant. He joined the staff at Mike Kelly Chevrolet and retired from his sales position after 23 years of service.
Not only was Bob a devoted father and “pop-pop” to his family, he was a legend in the various sporting arenas in Butler. Because of his love for sports, he obtained his referee patch, and could often be seen on the basketball courts throughout Butler and surrounding counties, officiating grade school to high school. Because Bob was known for his high energy and love of sports, he also was an umpire for softball. In fact, two days before the onset of his illness, he was umpiring a softball tournament in Meadville. Prior to obtaining his officiating certificates, he spent many years coaching his sons and daughter in football, basketball and baseball. He introduced his family to the Allegheny River in 1969, where, during the summer months, he would enjoy downtime with his family at “The River” in East Brady; boating, canoeing, and skiing. Many of you who knew Bob, spent many days and nights at the river enjoying the company of the Cowoski’s.
After his retirement, he reconnected with his hometown friends and spent some of his time on fishing trips and golfing. He cherished his road trips with his lifelong Butler friends. He was also a problem-solver who often took on difficult and unwanted projects at work, home and in anytime of adversity.
He was a familiar name in the community and served as the former director of Butler County Sports Hall of Fame, was a member of the Highfield Golf League, and prior to his illness he joined his Butler friends every morning as a Silver Sneaker member at the YMCA. Additionally, he had various affiliations with his officiating chapter groups.
He touched many lives with his charismatic personality and was probably the most unique, crazy, funny, warm and loving man to those that knew him with his God loving wisdom. Robert E. Cowoski, you will be deeply missed by your many friends, your vast family, and all those who were blessed to have known you.
At Bob’s request, there will be no visitation. Bob’s family will greet those who wish to pay respects on Saturday, February 17th, 2018 at Saint Fidelis Roman Catholic Church 125 Buttercup Road, Butler, PA between 9:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m.. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 a.m. The Rev. William Wuenschel, Pastor, will officiate.
A Trust Fund for Dylan Cowoski, Bob’s grandson, who was diagnosed with Autism at an early age, is is being established. It was Bob’s wishes for memorial donations, in lieu of flowers, and if desired, be made to Dylan Cowoski PO Box 432 Lyndora, PA 16045 or donations can be sent using the Zelle mobile banking app using email-ccowo@zoominternet.net. or mobile-724.679.0944