Joseph N. Kowalewski

Joseph N. Kowalewski, 80, of Rochester, New York, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, on August 8, 2026.

Joe was born in Rochester, New York, on December 9, 1945, to Florence and Stanley Kowalewski. He graduated from Eastridge High School in 1965 as one of two valedictorians. During those years, he also met the love of his life, Shirley Cusimano. They married on August 27, 1968, and spent more than five decades building a life together. Their many adventures included unforgettable travels throughout California and neighboring states.

He attended Miami Dade Junior College, where he pursued an Associate’s Degree and studied painting. During his time there, he studied with renowned artist Duane Hanson, with whom he also developed a close personal friendship.

Joe began his commercial art career at O’Melia Outdoor Advertising in Rochester, New York, as a billboard artist, hand-painting large-scale advertising displays before the advent of digital printing. Among his many assignments were campaigns for prominent brands, including Black Velvet Canadian Whisky, featuring the famous “Black Velvet Lady,” and Johnnie Walker Scotch Whisky. His work helped transform these nationally recognized campaigns into striking landmarks throughout Western New York.

Beyond his work as an artist, Joe was a passionate advocate for people with disabilities. For ten years, he volunteered with TRIADD in Rochester, educating teachers and community groups about dyslexia and the challenges students faced in traditional learning environments. His advocacy helped change perspectives and encouraged greater understanding and support for different learning styles.

His many interests reflected a curious and inventive nature, from motorcycles, painting, and restoring cars to chess, Scrabble, music, ham radio, electronics, audiobooks, and history.

One of Laura’s favorite memories of her father was their “fishing” adventures at Durand Eastman Park. Along the trail, they would search for discarded hooks, bobbers, and rubber worms, then use whatever they found to fabricate their own makeshift fishing line. They never caught a fish, but the fun they had trying became a moment Laura will always treasure.

An animal lover, Joe cherished his cats, Amanda, Beau, Willow, and especially Snug, who remained close by his side. He also adored his grandcats, Hikaru and Ryuu, and his granddog, Mango.

His greatest joy was his family and the life he shared with Shirley. He will be remembered for his artistic talent and imaginative mind, but even more for the kind of person he was: a devoted husband and father, a calming presence, endlessly curious, funny, and genuinely caring toward those around him.

Joe was reunited with his parents, Florence and Stanley Kowalewski, and his sister, Annella.

He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Shirley; his daughter, Laura Kowalewski; his son-in-law, Andrew Carpenter; and his sister, Marci Caplis of Massachusetts.

Memorial services will be private for family and friends.