Greg Kowal

Died May 12, 2025

Greg passed away peacefully in Vernon BC on May 12, 2025 after months of fighting Cancer.

An avid sportsman and outdoor enthusiast, Greg grew up in the Okanagan and loved the outdoors, spending many days fishing & hunting in his favorite local areas. He often went exploring trails and backroads in the truck or on the atv. From a young age, he was active in sports, playing baseball then men's softball and he played rep hockey until his junior hockey years with the Vernon Lakers, and even found time in between to develop a fair golf game. He loved spending time with his grandkids, teaching them to fish and playing sports in the yard.

He was predeceased by his mother Bev and sister Dianne. He leaves behind his partner Roxy Pippolo, father Allan Kowal, brother Donald Kowal, son Micheal Dovell (Emma) grandchildren Emma, Jack and Hunter, and his niece and nephew Kelsey Besler (Will) and Shane Young.

Greg had many friends and relationships that were cultivated from the years of attending local schools, working with the public (Al's Esso, SuperSave, Watkin Motors) and his sports team mates. He was a 'connector' who brought together people from different circles to form new bonds, whether it was 'thirsty Thursdays in his shop' with the boys or hunting, fishing or trail riding, he was always ready to introduce old friends to new and always claimed that he "knew a guy" when it came time to getting a job done. He will be dearly missed by the many whose lives he touched and the friendship he shared.

There will be a celebration of life party at Greg's Tiki bar on May 31, 2025 starting at 3pm. This will be a non formal gathering, plan to arrive anytime after 3:00pm. Bring your stories and memories, a lawn chair and an appetizer to share if you wish.

Note: Kowal played three seasons in Vernon from 1982-1985 with the Vernon Lakers. In 141 games with the Vernon Lakers, Kowal collected (74-goals-79-assists-153-points).

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