Mary Catherine Kowalski, 71, of Liverpool, NY, passed away on Monday after a long illness. Mary was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother and teacher and dedicated her life to her family and students.  She was born in Herkimer, NY, the daughter and only child of the late Edward and Connie (Lovecchio) Strokoski.  After graduating from Herkimer High School, Mary continued her studies at Herkimer County Community College while caring for her ill parents. She went on to graduate from SUNY Oneonta receiving her Bachelor's degree in Education. Mary then obtained a Master's degree in Education from SUNY Cortland. Mary started her career in Mohawk, NY teaching third grade. After marrying and moving to the Syracuse area she continued her teaching career and earned a certification in ESL from Le Moyne College.  Mary worked in many of the schools in the Liverpool Central School District and was a longtime teacher at Donlin Drive Elementary.

Mary loved new experiences and enjoyed life. She especially loved her husband, children and grandchildren. Mary loved hosting Fourth of July and holiday family gatherings. She was able to travel the world, visiting places like Italy, France, Iceland, Hawaii, Costa Rica, and Alaska to name a few. Mary also enjoyed kayaking over many of the lakes in remote areas of the Adirondacks with family, experiencing nature and the outdoors.

Surviving Mary to cherish her memory are her husband of 44 years, Richard A. Kowalski of Liverpool, NY; her son, Brian E. (Catherine) Kowalski of Washington, DC; her daughter, Katherine M. (Ben) Kowalski of Fairport, NY; and her five grandchildren, Scarlett, Lillian, William, Ezra, and Thatcher.

Calling hours will be held on Saturday, December 17, 2022 from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm at the Maurer Funeral Home Moyers Corners, 3541 State Rt 31 Baldwinsville, NY 13027, with Funeral services to follow at 12:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Mary's memory can be made to Susan G. Komen or the Food Bank of Central New York.

Please sign the funeral home on-line guest book for Mary to express your condolences to her family.