Growing up in East Detroit, Michigan, Richard Kowalski used determination and hard work throughout his life. He joined the military, pursed an education through the GI Bill, and raised a large family and was a wonderful husband and father. He worked to become an effective medical administrator.
He started working at twelve years old as a paper delivery boy with the Detroit Morning Free Press and had various jobs before joining the Marine Corps at eighteen. In his military time of three years, he qualified as a sharp shooter, served as a drill instructor, acquired the rank of sergeant, and ended his service career as a United States Honor Guard.
Upon an honorable discharge from the United States Marine Corps, he worked building trucks at Divco Corporation. After factory work, he acquired a position as purchaser at North Detroit General Hospital where he worked his way up to office manager and then assistant administrator. In his next position, he served as assistant administrator at Warren Memorial Hospital and Clinic. In 1973, he moved with his family to northern Michigan as the administrator of Burns Clinic, a position he held for fourteen years with a combined total of twenty-nine years in the medical field.
He graduated from East Detroit High School in 1952. He attended South Macomb College, Walsh Institute of Accountancy, and American College of Medical Group Administrators. Although education was important to him, his work experience strengthened his leadership capabilities.
Richard Kowalski is survived by his loving wife, Loretta (McGregor). During sixty-five years of marriage, they were blessed with six children, which include Katherine (Thomas) Schacher, Peggy (Todd) Turbin, Diane (Larry) Smith, Barbara (James Jr.) Ingraham, Richard (Deirdre) Kowalski, and Robert (Maureen) Kowalski. Further blessings included thirteen grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.
The most important moments in his life were with his wife and family and helping to expand the medical facility of Burns Clinic.
He was known as a generous man, devoted husband, loving father and grandfather, as well as a respected administrator.
On June 12, 2022, at the age of 87, he went to meet his loving Savior and Lord. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Holy Childhood of Jesus Catholic Church, Right to Life of Michigan, McLaren Hospice, or a charity of your choice. A private family service will be held.
Arrangements are in the care of Stone Funeral Home, Inc. of Petoskey, Michigan.
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