Kevin Kowalkoski

Friendly, talented, and fun, Kevin Richard Kowalkoski lived for the stage. A natural performer, Kevin found his greatest joy in acting, much preferring to embody characters’ personas over the need to be himself. Loyal to those he trusted, Kevin was a good man who worked hard for his independence. A cherished son, brother, uncle, and friend, Kevin will long be remembered by those he so dearly loved.

1983 was the year Swatch watches, Cabbage Patch dolls, and the Atari 5200 poured into our lives. The thrill of watching Sally Ride become the first American woman in space on the Space Shuttle Challenger’s maiden flight softened the end of an era with the final episode of M*A*S*H*. Star Wars: Return of the Jedi opened in theaters, Fraggle Rock debuted on HBO, and the influential music of Michael Jackson and David Bowie gained popularity. As the nation looked to the future with hope, nowhere was there more happy anticipation for the future than in the hearts of Richard and Rebecca (Walton) Kowalkoski as they welcomed their son Kevin into their family on January 26 in Big Rapids, Michigan.

Kevin grew up in the good company of his younger brother Alex in Big Rapids, where their parents worked as counselors at Ferris State University. The family attended Big Rapids United Methodist Church and spent every weekend of the summer at the family cottage near Mountain Beach Association on Lake Michigan. Kevin enjoyed swimming, and Lake Michigan became his favorite spot. The family also enjoyed taking trips to Disney World and other amusement parks.

A happy, smart child, Kevin loved singing, watching movies, and reading history books. He attended Interlocken Center for the Arts for vocal training. As a nine-year-old, he landed his first acting part playing Jackie in the production of “I Remember Mama” at the local theater Stage M. He would go on to act in middle and high school, college, and local theater productions. These productions included Music Man, Pirates of Penzance, The Sound of Music, Brigadoon, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, and Cabaret. He consistently applied his skills and dedicated himself entirely to the parts he played.

Kevin graduated from Big Rapids High School. After auditioning with hundreds of applicants for a theater scholarship at Western Michigan University, he earned one of only eighteen scholarships. He attended WMU and later transferred and graduated from Ferris State University. Following his dream of becoming a professional actor, Kevin traveled to New York City and even moved to Chicago for a time. Though his dream didn’t pan out, Kevin never gave up his love for singing and acting.

Being independent was very important to Kevin. While in school, he worked as a waiter to support himself and apartment life. Over the years, he worked as a waiter/bartender for many establishments in Big Rapids, Chicago, Holland, and Grand Rapids. In addition to his work, he became a proud uncle to his brother Alex’s children, Kaitlin, Travis, and Logan, sharing his love for music and acting and cheering on all their endeavors.

Tragically, in January 2021, Kevin was diagnosed with a rare virus that eventually led to deteriorating health, including kidney failure, dialysis, and heart issues. Despite the many challenges he faced, Kevin found happiness in the things he loved most, especially performance, music, family, and friends.

Though our days with him were far too few, every moment spent with Kevin is a gift we will long treasure. As we celebrate his life, may we find much comfort in our favorite memories, especially those of Kevin on stage, embodying the characters he played and devoting himself to quality entertainment. May we also find comfort in carrying Kevin’s legacy of love for Lake Michigan, fierce independence, humor, and loyal friendship forward. In this way, we keep Kevin’s spirit alive, inspiring others as he so inspired us.

Kevin Kowalkoski, age 41, passed away peacefully at his home, August 30, 2024. Kevin was born on January 26, 1983, in Big Rapids to Richard and Rebecca (Walton) Kowalkoski. He is also survived by his brother, Alex (Jenna) Kowalkoski, and their children, Kaitlin, Travis, and Logan. According to his wishes, cremation has taken place. To read more of Kevin’s Life Story, leave a memory, or sign the guestbook, please visit www.heritagelifestory.com.