On May 28, 2018 Norbert Joseph Kowalkowski passed away peacefully after a short 2-month illness at home.
Born to Jeanette and Norbert Kowalkowski in St. Cloud, Minnesota. He attended private Catholic Schools after his mother died when he was 10 years old. He had an athletic basketball scholarship to St. John University Minnesota. He obtained his Masters in Education Administration at SJ Cal State.
He came to California to work as a speech therapist and became a principal of numerous schools in Pajaro Valley School District: Amesti, Calabasas, EA Hall and Aptos Jr. High. He loved his job and particularly the students. He was excellent even with the mischievous students. He truly made a difference in their lives. He was offered and asked to be the principle of Watsonville High but he declined and stated he preferred Jr. High.
He leaves his wife Marti (Martha Kowalkowski) and her 3 sons and families. Norbert also leaves a former wife, Jan and their 3 children Kristi (Gary) Manfre, Karen (Jimmy) Tipton, Kevin (Michelle) Kowalkowski, and 5 grandchildren and many loving relatives and friends.
He built numerous rental properties in Santa Cruz County in between education duties. His passion was golf and life long interest in athletics.
He died as he lived with strength, grace, and a loving spirit. He had a tremendous legacy of wit and sense of humor, which was a great asset.
Any donations, please give to a charity of your choice for any education foundation.
A private gathering will be held for Norb in the near future.
Arrangements have been entrusted in the care of The Carroll Family of Ave Maria Memorial Chapel, www.avemariamemorialchapel.com
