Gavin P. Kowalski

Gavin Paul Kowalski, 12, of Wittenberg, died unexpectedly on Monday, March 11, 2024, at his home. Gavin was born on Sept. 30, 2011, at Madigan Army Hospital in Washington, the beloved son of Ted and Christine (Czerwonka) Kowalski. He was currently in sixth grade at Wittenberg Elementary-Middle School. Gavin was involved in many organizations including My Team Triumph, Special Olympics, Autism Society, GiGi’s Playhouse and SOFT (Support Organization for Trisomy). He loved to watch “Paw Patrol,” bowling, playing at the park and reading books. His favorites were “Napping House” and “Pig’s Egg.” Gavin’s favorite foods were chicken nuggets, french fries and fruit. Gavin faced many obstacles in his life, but his determined personality and family helped him persevere to live life to the fullest. Gavin is survived by his loving parents, Ted and Christine Kowalski; a brother, Wyatt; grandparents, Maribeth Czerwonka and Paul and Mary Kowalski; aunts and uncles, Ann (Jerry) Pagel, Lisa (Mark) O’Shasky, Maria (Karl) Riebe, John (Lauri) Czerwonka, Sandy (Chris) Postl, Sherry Kowalski, Paul Kowalski Jr. and Norman Kowalski; and many cousins, including, Zach, Makayla, Preston, Ben, Sam, Michelle, Kristin, Emily, Allyson, Carter, Nick, Tim, Dylan, Eric and Terrence; as well as several others. Gavin was preceded in death by his grandpa, John Czerwonka. Special thanks to all of his loving caregivers, including Jami Wendler, Mattea and Charlotte Kowalski, Arely Ocampo, Lisa Schmidt, Rory Salveson, Cheyanne Domino, Leah Giddings, Sage Blum and several others over the years. A Mass of Christian burial will be held on Saturday, March 16, 2024, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Galloway. The Rev. Augustine Bentil will preside. Burial will be in the parish cemetery. A visitation will be held on Friday, March 15, 2024, at the church, beginning at 4 p.m. with a rosary service at 7 p.m. Visitation will continue on Saturday, from 9 a.m. until the time of Mass. Schmidt and Schulta Funeral Home in Wittenberg, is assisting the family with arrangements. Memories and messages of support may be shared at www.schmidtschulta.com.