Bernadette “Bernie” Marie Kowalski has left behind a legacy of love and devotion that will forever be cherished in the hearts of those who knew her. On Aug. 26, 2024, the world lost a remarkable soul born on March 22, 1945, in Hamden, Connecticut, a caring wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. She endured a long four year battle with kidney disease and weekly trips to doctor’s appointments and dialysis, but kept her smile and faith throughout it all. She was a faithful member of St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church.
Bernie’s life was dedicated to the meticulous care she provided as the owner and operator of the renowned Old Mill Crab House in Delmar, Del., that she and her beloved husband Bob opened in 1983 and worked tirelessly every summer day until retirement in 2007. Bob and Bernie moved to Delmar from Connecticut in 1973 and for several years she worked as a medical assistant to Dr. Weaver while helping Bob manage several restaurants and Family Game Rooms across Delmarva.
Her life’s passion was her family. Supporting her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren in their many school and community functions, she was a proud mom and nana and was always their biggest cheerleader. She also loved spending time at the beach, family vacations and holidays, lighthouses and working in her flowers and shrubs. She found peace in watching the birds and especially loved to relax and watch the remarkable hummingbirds fight over the feeders.
Her loving spirit will be deeply missed by her beloved family. She is survived by her husband of almost 58 years, Robert “Bob” J. Kowalski, her son Jeffrey Kowalski and wife Shannon, and daughters Kristin Merritt and Jennifer Joseph and husband, Vance. Additionally, she is cherished by her dear grandchildren Allyson Geary (Evan), Mackenzie Wright (Tyler), Brandon Thompson (Rachel), Christopher Thompson, Noah Kowalski, Ryan Kowalski, Nathan VanZandt, and Sarah Merritt, and great-grandchildren, Mallory and Hudson (and one on the way). She is also survived by many nieces, nephews and a host of close friends. Bernie’s memory is also carried on by her sisters, Edith Johnson, and Margaret Andrews, with whom she shared countless memories and unbreakable bonds.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by siblings, Francis Lesocky and Judith Ciemer.
The celebration of Bernie’s life took place on Saturday, Aug. 31 at Short Funeral Home, Delmar.
In honoring Bernie’s life, let us take comfort in the shared memories we hold dear and the joy she brought to all around her. Memorial donations may be made in her memory to help children in need by visiting www.stjude.org.
Please visit www.shortfh.com to share online condolences and memories with Bernie’s family.