Deacon Kenneth L. Kalkowski

Kenny, age 90, died peacefully on Thursday, May 26. He was the loving husband of Renee Waite Kalkowski for 67 years. Kenny was born on a farm in Creighton, NE, September 6, 1931, the oldest of four children of the late Mabel and Stanley Kalkowski. He was preceded in death by his wife Renee and brother Larry.

He is survived by his sisters Marilyn O’Brien Mills (John)  and Judy Kalkowski, sister-in laws Micki (Gary) Pospisil and Monika Kalkowski, and seven children: Kim (Robert Ottemann), Marty (Teresa), Julie (Paul Farrand), Dan, Christie (Tim Gomo), Maggie (Kevin O'Connell) and Karen (Maximo) Buschfrers; grandchildren Luke and Laura Kalkowski, Maureen and Emma Kalkowski-Farrand, Abby, Libby and Danny Gomo, Claire (Vaibhav Ingle), Bridget, Sean and Liam O'Connell, Milagros, Cedric and Matias Buschfrers; great-granddaughter Eva Ingle; nieces and nephews from Boston to Fairbanks.

After a long career as a social worker at the Veteran’s Administration Hospital, he became a chaplain at St.  Joseph’s Hospital. Kenny was engaged in many community projects, including Make Today Count, the diaconate, St. Vincent de Paul, and Omaha Together One Community (OTOC). He made a lasting impact on many lives through his work and ministry. He also served in the United States Navy from 1951-55, all while stationed in Honolulu, HA.

Kenny leaves behind a legacy of warmth and humor, always seeing the best in others. As parents, Kenny and Renee instilled a fierce sense of social justice and fairness in their children, which continues to guide their lives.

Memorials are suggested for CUES or Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church