Henry John “Hank” Kowalik, the son of Max and Helen (Leonard) Kowalik, was born November 14, 1947, in Dearborn, Michigan. He grew up and graduated from high school in Michigan.
Hank proudly served his country in the United States Army for over twenty years, retiring at the rank of Staff Sergeant (SSG). Following his military career, he moved to Iowa in 1986. Hank worked as a welder and in maintenance at Stylecraft Furniture, and he also worked on motorcycles at Polaris.
In his free time, Hank enjoyed playing pool and darts. He especially enjoyed spending time with Bonnie and his great-niece and great-nephew, giving them cooking lessons. Known for his personality and the many memories he created over the years, Hank was often simply described by his family as “a legend.”
Hank passed away on September 23, 2026, at the age of seventy-eight at his home in Spirit Lake, surrounded by his family.
He is survived by his fiancée of twenty-three years, Bonnie VanLenning, along with numerous other family members and friends.
Hank was preceded in death by his parents, Max and Helen Kowalik; his sister, Patricia Kowalik; and his brother, Bobby Kowalik.
A memorial service will be held Friday, October 2, 2026, at 2:00 PM at Turner Jenness Funeral Home in Spirit Lake, with visitation beginning at 1:00 PM. A Celebration of Life will be held at Buck’s Pub in Spirit Lake following the memorial service. Burial will take place at Arlington National Cemetery at a later date.
Arrangements are under the care of Turner Jenness Funeral Home.
