Connor E. Kowalski

We are deeply saddened to announce the heartbreaking, sudden, and unexpected passing of Connor Everett Kowalski, 26, on Wednesday, October 26, 2022, at his residence in Missoula, Montana.

Connor was born to two loving parents, Jason and Janine Kowalski, on September 27th, 1996, in Missoula, Montana. Connor, the oldest of two children, grew up in Florence, Montana and graduated from Florence High School in 2015. He continued his education at Montana State University in Bozeman, Montana. In 2021, Connor returned to Missoula to finish his education in finance at the University of Montana.

Connor’s heart was as big as he was tall. He always focused on finding the silver lining and positivity in any situation he was presented with. His welcoming presence, alongside his inviting smile and upbeat attitude, was something that was seen through with every interaction he had with people. His love of life and his genuine love and caring for others is one of the many things that we will forever think of when remembering his beautiful life. Connor excelled in mathematics and his fondness for working with numbers was leading him to a career in the finance industry. Connor had many talents but one thing he especially enjoyed doing, was creating spectacular dishes. Whether it was smoking delicious meat for a summer BBQ, creating delectable appetizers for any occasion, or baking scrumptious sweet treats, he thrived. Alongside his skills in the kitchen, Connor also deeply appreciated the beautiful outdoors that he grew up in. From memorable hunting and fishing trips spent with his family through the years, to spending a whole day out on the golf course soaking in the memories with his friends. His love of music was also something he held close to his heart, from singing his favorite songs on the boat with his family to camping for three days to see headline artists with his friends. Connor's dog and best friend, Huntley, was always by his side. The love Connor had for that dog was enormous. He knew Huntley could always cheer him up when nothing else was doing the trick. Connor adored animals and all the dogs in his family held a very special place in his heart. Connor was truly a one of a kind person who will forever be in our hearts.

Left to cherish his memory are his parents Janine and Jason; his younger sister Megan; maternal grandmother Kathy Haarman; paternal grandparents; Dick (Joanne) Kowalski and Barbara Zimolong; Uncles John Kowalski (Jennifer ) and Paul Kalstad; cousins Aida Kowalski, McKenna Kalstad and Haylie Kalstad; his canine companion Huntley; and many more extended family and friends. He was preceded in death by his maternal grandfather Roy Haarman.

A memorial service in honor of Connor will be held on Thursday, November 10, 2022, at 11:00am at the Missoula County Fairgrounds in the Home Arts Building. In lieu of flowers, donations are suggested to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.