David F. Kowalski, 60, passed peacefully in his home in Independence, MO surrounded by loved ones on December 6, 2022 after his third battle with colon cancer.

David was born August 3, 1962, the middle child of 5 to the late John and Nancy Kowalski. He was born and raised in Kansas City, MO, where he met the future love of his life, Tami, and they became neighborhood friends at an early age of 7 and 8 years old. He attended St. Mary’s High School and later East High School where he graduated in 1980. After getting married at 18, he worked at Crosby Food & Vending for 14 years. He also worked many other part time jobs to provide for his family. In 1994 he started working for ACME Fence Company, later becoming an Ironworker. He worked with his son, David, for 17 years of his 26-year career at ACME. He took an early retirement in August of 2020. Dave was a true family man and found joy being around his family and friends. He was a fixer and a builder and everyone’s go-to guy. He was always willing to help any family member or friend in need. He loved doing projects around the house and always kept himself busy. He had a passion for vintage arcade games and enjoyed working on cars. He was a big Chief’s fan, loved watching movies, dance/music shows and game shows. Dave was a kind and gentle man. He was a big teddy bear, despite his big, strong appearance and he did anything and everything for his wife and children.

He is survived by his loving wife, Tami, of 41 ½ years; 2 children, David Kowalski (Jessica) and Brittany Jones (Shay); 4 grandkids, Chloee, Ariah, Brayden, and Brody; 3 brothers, John Kowalski (TyEtta), Randy Kowalski, Richie Kowalski (Sheila); sister, Diane Mendenhall (Mike); mother-in-law, Gladys Greer; 1 sister-in-law, Cindi Kryzck; many nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and so many good friends.

Dave was the rock of his family. He was such a hardworking, patient, and funny man and he will be forever missed.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Royer’s New Salem Funeral Home, 1823 N. Blue Mills Rd. Independence, MO 64058, on Sunday, December 18^th from 3:00-6:00pm.

Arrangements: Royer’s New Salem Funeral Home Independence, MO (816) 796-8600