Rosemary Kowalski was a legend in San Antonio. As we mourn the loss of this beautifully kind, joyful and inspiring woman, we will continue to celebrate her legacy – a full century of philanthropy and community.
Ms. Kowalski was chosen as this year’s Texas Cavaliers River Parade Celebrity Grand Marshal because she so perfectly embodied the spirit of our parade’s theme, “Shine Bright: A Celebration of Light and Illumination for All.” She was not just a prominent San Antonio figure, but a luminous example of compassion and generosity that brightened the lives of countless individuals.
Throughout her remarkable journey, Rosemary Kowalski carved an indelible mark on San Antonio’s landscape, demonstrating that true community leadership is measured not by personal accolades, but by the lives touched and the hope inspired. Her philanthropic spirit radiated far beyond boardrooms and event halls, reaching into the hearts of those who needed support most.
“Rosemary didn’t just make an appearance in our city – she claimed a profound place in its heart,” said Tres Steves, Texas Cavaliers River Parade Marshal. “Her unwavering commitment to her community was a beacon of hope, casting light into every corner of San Antonio she touched.”
The Texas Cavaliers River Parade, scheduled for this spring, will stand in part as a tribute to Rosemary Kowalski – a woman who truly knew how to shine bright and illuminate the lives of others.
Rosemary passed away following a brief illness surrounded by her family, which includes daughter Mary Virginia and husband John Carrington; son Greg William and wife Bekki; their son and Rosemary’s grandson Travis, and wife Jamie (children Colton and Tessa); and their daughter and Rosemary’s granddaughter Jennifer, with her husband Todd Heinz (children Wyatt and Hadley). Rosemary was predeceased by husband Henry “Hank” Kowalski, who died in 1980.
Born on September 27, 1924, to Virginia Mergele Hughes and William Hughes, Rosemary grew up on San Antonio’s southside, first attending Blessed Sacrament Academy and later continuing her studies by training to become a comptometer operator. Several years later, she met Hank, a WWII pilot whom she married in 1944. Post-war, the couple used Hank’s military mustering-out pay to purchase Uncle Ben’s BBQ in the city’s westside.
This was the start of what would ultimately become Rosemary’s and her family’s legacy hospitality business that now maintains a national and international presence with offices in multiple markets.
Rosemary’s contributions to the hospitality industry and her philanthropic service to countless community and nonprofit organizations has been vast, with her hands-on, “can-do” approach that characterized both her professional and her personal life. An inductee of the Texas Business Hall of Fame, she was also a Grande Dame and founding member of Les Dames d’Escoffier, former Grand Marshal for the Battle of Flowers Parade, and first-ever recipient of the Visionary Award, Morgan’s among many other achievements.
“Rosemary’s legacy is the gift of joy and kindness that she gave to the world. She extended that generous spirit to anyone she met,” stated Greg Kowalski, President and CEO, The RK Group. “Our family has been blessed to have her in our lives for so many years. And we know that her legacy will live on through her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.”
More information regarding a memorial tribute open to the public will be announced at a later date; funeral services will be private.
