Obituary of Mitchell Paul Kowalski

Mitchell Paul Kowalski passed away peacefully on July 25, 2025, at the age of 79, surrounded by his devoted family in the comfort of his home in Denville, New Jersey.

Born in Newark, New Jersey, to the late Helen (Mroz) and Stephen Kowalski, Mitchell was the sole light to grace their household. Raised in Irvington, he graduated from Irvington High School in 1964 before enlisting to serve his country in the United States Navy. From 1964 to 1968, he served honorably as an electrician aboard the USS Valley Forge (LPH-8) and the USS Joseph P. Kennedy Jr., carrying the pride of his service throughout his life and sharing vivid stories of his time at sea. It was during a holiday leave, on a blind date orchestrated by friends, that Mitchell met his soulmate, Phylis Mary Pagnotta. In love from the first moment, he wrote her heartfelt letters while stationed away, and upon his return, they married on August 31, 1969. Together, they built a beautiful life in Denville until Phylis’s passing on January 25, 2021.

In 1976, Mitchell and Phylis settled into their home in Denville that he personally designed and built, a testament to his boundless ingenuity. Mitchell forged a successful career as a commercial refrigeration technician, first with R.L. Eggert Co. in Irvington and later with Engineering and Refrigeration, Inc. in Jersey City until his retirement. He was a man of all trades and could fix anything and his well-equipped woodshop in his basement was a haven for his tool collection and crafting countless projects. He also loved to collect vinyl records and classic movies. Mitchell’s love for music and artistry was a passion he shared with all who knew him. His love for chopping wood for his wood-burning stove brought simple joy to his days. He had also been a part of the Jeep community and was the proud owner of a 1986 Jeep CJ-7.

Mitchell’s heart was as vast as his talents. Known for rescuing stray cats while working in different areas, he extended his compassion to every soul he met. No task was too big, or too small—Mitchell was the first to lend a hand, whether building, fixing, or simply listening. His project lists were legendary, reflecting his tireless spirit and drive to create. As an artist, he poured his heart into every creation, leaving behind a legacy of love and selflessness.

The Jersey Shore, particularly Long Beach Island, held a special place in his heart, where he cherished swimming in the ocean and spending summer vacations with his family. Above all, Mitchell was the cornerstone of his family and the proudest grandfather to Jena Tanis, Logan Kowalski, and Novi Kowalski. His love for his grandchildren was limitless.

Mitchell’s legacy of love, light, and craftsmanship will live on in the hearts of his cherished family and countless friends. His absence leaves a profound void, but his spirit endures in every story told, every project completed, and every life he touched.

Mitchell is survived by his children, Wendy Kowalski and Stephen Kowalski; his grandchildren, Jena Tanis, Logan Kowalski, and Novi Kowalski; and a wide circle of friends who will forever remember his warmth and generosity.

A Memorial Mass will be held on Saturday, August 16, 2025, at 10 a.m. at St. Mary’s Church, 15 Myers Avenue, Denville, followed by burial at Denville Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Mitchell’s name are welcomed to Denville Animal Shelter or Eleventh Hour Rescue via www.inmemof.org to ensure receipt. Please share a condolence, leave a gesture, or recount a favorite memory of Mitchell to honor his remarkable life and keep his light shining.

*If you are unable to attend Mass, you can watch it live by clicking here*