Martin G. Chowanski

Martin G. Chowanski, 76, passed away in his home on December 12, 2021. Born in Norwich, England on October 8, 1945, son to Frank and Grace (Burrage) Chowanski. Frank met Grace in England when he was stationed there during his service in the Army. After Frank’s service had ended in 1948, Frank, Grace and Marty returned to the United States. Marty completed high school in Downers Grove, IL and then attended college for general business studies. He was drafted into the U.S Army in September of 1967 and was assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 16th Field Artillery Regiment. Marty received a Bronze Star in 1969 while in the service and was honorably discharged with the title of Captain. While in the service, he married the love of his life, Diana Jackson on February 17, 1968 in Fort Leonard Wood in Missouri and has enjoyed 53 years of marriage.

Marty shared his love of business, family and friendship with all of those that he met. He was also a great mentor and has taken many people under his wing to share his knowledge and educate. Marty would always make the time for learning or sharing advice with others and has taken great pride in owning two businesses. First business to support his family and the second gave him the opportunity to do what he loved: be the best salesman. Marty never retired from work, he needed to keep his mind active and he truly enjoyed business. It was never “work” for him, it was always enjoyable. He had a slogan that became registered as a trademark: “Solutions looking for problems” and he constantly used this to sell unusual products.

Marty was very family oriented and always gave him such a great source of joy. He loved traveling to see family, spending time with his kids, and proud to go to his grandkids games whenever he was able to. In his free time, he also enjoyed being an avid golfer, bowler, and cheering on the Bears. He and Diana enjoyed traveling and have visited many Army bases to stay active with his battalion. Marty has been a beacon of light to all of the lives that he has touched, he will be truly missed by all of those that knew him.

Marty will part this world with a portion of everyone’s heart in his loving family including, his wife of 53 years, Diana; his children Michelle (Barry) Ewing, Bryan (Hope) Chowanski, and Michael (Katie) Chowanski; his grandchildren Kayla (Harold) Wulf, Arianna Ewing, Syrena, Lindsay, Nina, Ashlyn and Zane Chowanski. He is predeceased by his parents Frank and Grace.

A private family graveside service will take place at Arlington Memorial Park. Fitzgerald Funeral home & Crematory, 1860 S. Mulford Road, Rockford, Illinois 61108 were entrusted in serving the family. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to any VFW post under Marty's Name. To send online condolences, please visit www.fitzgeraldfh.com