Kent Kowal Obituary

Kent R. Kowal, 79, of Farmington, passed away at 2:10 AM on Thursday July 3, 2025 at his home. He was born on December 21, 1945 in Macomb, IL, to Chester John and Barbara (Rost) Kowal. He married Kathleen Higgs on May 27, 1967 in Farmington, IL. She survives.
He is also survived by three children, Michael (Elyse) Kowal, Matthew (Helena) Kowal, and Ann (Jason) Lembke; six grandchildren, Kayla (Carter) Kowal, Laney Kowal, Laci Kowal, Kate Lembke, Alice Lembke, and Quinn Lembke; two sisters, Karen and Kristine Kowal; two brothers-in-law, Ralph (Sherry) Higgs and David (Carolyn) Higgs; and one sister-in-law, Barbara Higgs.
He was preceded in death by his parents and one grandchild, Hayden Kowal.
Mr. Kowal taught high school English and was a guidance counselor. He was affectionately referred to as "Chief" by his students. Then he began a 41-year career at the Bank of Farmington where he served as president and later chairman of the board.
Mr. Kowal was very active in the community serving on many boards, including FCHS School Board, Rotary, Graham Hospital Board of Trustees, Farmington Betterment Association, Farmington Library Board, Illinois Bankers Association and Farmington Chamber of Commerce. He was a member of the Farmington Presbyterian Church, where he served as trustee and auditor, and sang in the choir.
For years, Mr. Kowal served as chairman of Italian fest where he wrote the Great Pomodoro clues. He was co-chairman of the Farmington Sesquicentennial (1984). After he retired, he continued to serve the community as councilman and mayor of Farmington. He served in the National Guard and was an Eagle Scout.
He enjoyed extensive travel with his wife, Kathleen, and golfing and poker nights with his friends of the gazebo gang. Chatting with his friends at coffee, hiking, and walking in the woods especially with his dog brought much joy. He was a voracious reader and excellent writer. He even authored his own book of life stories. Kent was someone who always got along with and was harmonious with others. He was a lifelong learner continuing his education after retirement with classes through OLLI. He enjoyed following a variety of sporting events including St. Louis Cardinals, the Chicago Bears, Bradley Braves,
and the Fighting Illini. In addition, he loved his Schnauzers, Maggie, Gracie and especially Lucy. Kasey was his faithful companion to the end.
Kent tried to find something to be happy about or be thankful for every day. He believed he was lucky to have had so many happy times and good friends.
Visitation will be held Sunday, July 6, 2025 from 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM at the First Presbyterian Church of Farmington. Memorial service will be at 4:00 PM, followed by dinner at the church. Pastor Cindy Bean will officiate. Burial at Trivoli Cemetery will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Farmington Central Academic Foundation, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, or Farmington Betterment Association. To view Kent's DVD or to make an online condolence you may go to www.sedgwickfuneralhomes.com
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Kent, please visit our floral store.