Leonard John Kowalski

Leonard started his magnificent journey on December 27, 2019. He was born March 28, 1948 in Elmira, Ohio.

Leonard is preceded in death by his parents, John & Helen (Stara) Kowalski; grandfather and mentor, Alexey Chernay - Metropolitan of the Russian Orthodox Church in North America. He is survived by his life partner, Ben Burkett and family; God child, Shannon; two uncles, numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.

Leonard was a graduate of Texas A&M, class of 1970, with a degree in architecture. He was a member of the Corps of Cadets, and a life member of the Old Sarge Club at A&M. Leonard was also a life member of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, a founding member of the Houston-Harris County Fair, and a graduate of the Donnie Gay School of Bronc Riding. He operated an election service, contracting with Harris County, Metro, and the City of Houston as a polling place coordinator until retiring in 2016. Leonard was an avid gardener who specialized in orchids. Of course, as most of you know, he was a holiday decorator extraordinaire! He was very patriotic, installing flags on every utility pole on his block for national holidays. Leonard lived life fully. He was an avid cruiser, having made 28 voyages and traveling extensively in Europe and Russia. He completed 2 crossings on the Queen Elizabeth 2, on which he took great delight in arriving at sunrise in New York Harbor to see the sunrise over the Statue of Liberty.

A celebration of Leonard's life will be held Saturday, February 22, 2020 at 11 AM in the chapel of Heights Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Leonard's name to the Houston SPCA.

GIG 'EM AGGIES! HOWDY HUMP IT WHOOP!