Joseph T. Kowalski, 76, of Yorkville passed away on Friday, December 11, 2020 at St. Elizabeth’s Medical Center. Joseph was born in Utica on May 9, 1944, the son of the late John and Catherine (Greczkowski) Kowalski. He was raised and educated in Utica and proudly served in the Army during the Vietnam War. On May 6, 1967, Joseph was united in marriage to Patricia Ruczkowski at St. Paul’s Church, Whitesboro. He started his work career at Chicago Pneumatic Co and later until his retirement was employed at Special Metals. He was a member of BPOE #33 and American Legion Post # 1376, New Hartford. Joe enjoyed golfing, playing cards, playing monopoly with his grandchildren and was an avid bowler. He was a Miami Dolphins fan and a huge John “Duke” Wayne enthusiast. Joseph is survived by his wife, Patricia; his two children, Christine (Christopher) Baron, Cobleskill, NY and Michael (Kristen) Kowalski, New Hartford; three beloved grandchildren, Joseph Baron, Andrew Baron and Morgan Sica; a brother-in-law, Raymond Ruszkowski, New Hartford and his canine companion, Sierra. Private services will be held at the convenience of the family. Those so wishing may make donations to the Stevens – Swan Humane Society in Joe’s memory. Arrangements are by the Heintz Funeral Service Inc. Online messages of sympathy may be made at Heintzfuneralservice.net Joe would love for everyone to go out and buy a lottery ticket “You can’t win if you don’t play!”