Philomena (Ross) Kowalewski

Philomena Kowalewski (Ross), 82, died peacefully on Wednesday, February 24, 2021, after a long battle with Alzheimer’s disease. Born December 16, 1938, in Old Forge, PA, she was the daughter of the late Joseph and Anna Ross.

Loving wife of 61 years, Philomena was a mother, grandmother and great-grandmother who adored her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She selfishly loved each of them and continually demonstrated loving kindness. With the help of her loving husband, Ed, she was able to raise her 7 children. In her own words written on June 19, 1992: Supermom! WonderPhil! Able to leap small curbs in a single bound… sometimes. Philomena was an inspiration to all!

Philomena was a dedicated housewife and worked as a bookkeeper for Zazzera’s Supermarket. As a member of Sacred Heart parish (Ascension Parish), she served as a lector and taught religious education for many years.

Next to her husband, Ed, and her family, country living, sweets and ice cream were the love of her life. Philomena was an accomplished cook and baker who always lavished her family and friends with the best of food and irresistible treats. Her love of all things culinary she shared with her children and grandchildren and served as an aspiration for them. Philomena loved to crochet, making hats and afghans for everyone in the family. She won blue ribbons from the Bloomsburg Fair for her beautiful work.

The holidays were always so special! The whole family gathered to celebrate and enjoy each other’s company. Her family eagerly awaited each holiday to feast on the delicious, traditional ethnic foods she made. Philomena elaborately decorated for each season and her grandchildren so enjoyed seeing all the decorations.

Don't forget about her love of football and Sunday's being all things football. The Giants were her favorite team, yet she could tell you everything about most players on all teams. She knew football better than most of us.

Philomena loved to travel with her husband, visiting many states from Alaska to Hawaii to Florida and many in-between. During the past few years as Philomena’s health declined, she enjoyed her daily rides with her husband. Oh! The places they would go – the back roads throughout the area to see all that nature shared in its glorious splendor.

She always had a kind word for everyone, saying, “If you can't say anything nice, don't say anything at all."

Philomena, Phil, Mom, Grandma, Great-grandma – You will be missed dearly, cherished always and forever be in our hearts!

Philomena is survived by her husband, Edward, Clifford Township; seven children: Madelyn and Fran Mlinar, Lawrenceville, NJ; Edward, Jr. and Mary Jo Kowalewski, Saratoga Springs, NY; Monica and Bill Duffy, Queensbury, NY; Marti and Bob Smith, Oak Ridge, NJ; Joe and Michele Kowalewski, Gansevoort, NY; Matthew and Katie Kowalewski, Freehold, NJ; and Mark and Laura Kowalewski, Clifford Township; 13 grandchildren: Jacob, Austin, Josh, Lauren, Ross, Owen, Samantha, Kristin, Corey, Anna, Nate, Leo, and Jack; and 4 great-grandchildren: Eleanor, Benjamin, Easton, and Braxton.

A Mass of Christan Burial was held Friday, March 5, 2021 in St Joseph's Church. Arrangement were by the Kevin M. Lesjack Funeral Home, 513 Main St, Forest City.  

Memorial contributions can be made in Philomena's name to: Clifford Twp. Volunteer Fire Company, PO Box 10, Clifford, PA 18413.

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