Betty Jean Kowalski, age 69, of Coal City, IL passed away peacefully at her home on Wednesday, March 28, 2024 surrounded by her family.

She was born on February 15, 1955 in Harvey, IL to George and Gertrude (nee Wileman) Bishop. She grew up in the Dolton area as one of nine children. She graduated from Thornton Township High School Class of 1973 in Harvey. Betty married Andrew A. Kowalski on October 22, 1977. Together they raised two children in Tinley Park and Mokena. Later, they spent a few years in Florida before settling in Coal City in 2020.

Betty was one of a kind. She was a devoted and loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend. She enjoyed music including country, Rod Stewart and Elvis. She enjoyed being in any water whether it be the ocean, a lake or a swimming pool. She was an avid reader and a lover of animals, especially her grand dogs and cats.  Most of all, Betty could be described as the sweetest person on earth.

She is survived by her husband of 46 years, Andy; her children, Christine (John Seeley) Jaskula of Diamond and Thomas (Stephanie) Kowalski of Crown Point, IN; her granddaughter, Payton Jaskula; and her sisters, Barbara (Paul) Trencan of New Lenox, Sherrie Bishop of Diamond and Cindy Bishop of Ft. Payne, AL.

She was preceded in death by her parents, George and Gertrude Bishop; her sister, Darlene (Larry) Barton, and her brothers, Dale Bishop,  George "Snooks" (Barbara) Bishop, Richard "Dick" Bishop, and Robert "Pete" Bishop.

Memorials may be made to the family.

Visitation will be from 3:00 pm to 8:00 pm on Thursday, April 4, 2024 at Ferrari Funeral Services, 1044 Ferrari Drive, Coal City, IL 60416.

Funeral Service will be at 11:00 am on Friday, April 5, 2024, also at Ferrari Funeral Services, with visitation one hour prior to the service. Pastor Caleb Counterman will officiate.

Cremation rites will be accorded following services.

Family and friends are encouraged to sign the online guestbook at www.ferrarifuneral.com

Ferrari Funeral Services of Coal City are entrusted with arrangements.