Walter S. Kowal

WORCESTER - Walter S. Kowal, 75, a lifelong resident of Worcester passed away peacefully at home on Monday, May 23, 2016, following several years of declining health. He was born in Worcester, a son of the late Walter J. and Mary C. (Pofit) Kowal. Walter graduated from Classical High School, where he was an award winning long distance running star. He completed his degree in economics and business at Northeastern University in 1963. He entered the field of finance for a short period, but the call of the outdoors and working on something he had always loved, trains, was too strong. As a young boy, Walter was fascinated by everything about trains. He would appeal to his aunt to take him to Union Station from Vernon Hill just to watch the passing engines and cars. That love turned into a 30 year career with several railroads, including the New York New Haven, Penn Central, Providence and Worcester, and Conrail, working is several stations and yards as a freight agent and signal tower operator. His vocation was also his avocation. He followed trains and visited numerous train yards around the country with his wife and his many friends chronicling the trains through his other talent, photography. He shot photos all over the country and his works can be found is several train publications. Walt was an avid Boston sports fan, following the Patriots, Red Sox and old time Celtics. Walt will be missed by his beloved wife of 52 years, Nancy R. (Smith) Kowal; his son, Richard Kowal, his daughter, Lisa Aijala and her husband, Michael of Pottsvville, PA; three grandchildren, Ethan Kowal, Ava and Brooke Aijala, whom he adored. Walter was predeceased by his son, Christopher William Kowal in 1970. A gathering to share memories will be held at the end of June with friends and family.