RACINE - Mary Ann "Babe" (nee: Horvath) Kowalsky, 86 passed away peacefully at the Elizabeth Residence on Wednesday April 3, 2013. Babe was a lifelong resident of Racine, born on June 26, 1926, the daughter of Steve and Mary (nee: Verab) Horvath. She was a united in marriage to the love of her life, Walter C. "Wally" Kowalsky at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Racine on August 6, 1949. Babe was employed at Stein's Garden Center retiring after 18 year of service. She found great enjoyment in crafts, gardening and most of all bowling, in which she was involved in many city leagues, bowling numerous 300 games. Babe is survived by her dear friend and caretaker, Patricia "Patti" Kunicki and her children, Jeremy (Jill) Kunicki, Claire Kunicki, and Danielle Kunicki known to them as "Grandma Mary". She is also survived by nieces and nephews, Beth (Dennis) Durik, Vic Pier, Ciccy Kreplean, Jamie Scott Buss, Jeff Durik, Janine Schrimshaw, and Justine Bryant, referring to Babe as "Kedismama (Hungarian for Godmother) and Steven and David Pier. Babe is further survived by other nieces, nephews, one sister, brothers, sister-in-law, other relatives and many, many dear friends including Bernice Kissenger and close neighbors. She was preceded in death by her husband, Wally, her parents, two brothers, Joseph and Steven Horvath, five brothers-in-law, her father-in-law, mother-in-law and niece Micki Pier. In keeping with Babe's wishing, private services have been held at Holy Cross Cemetery. She was laid to rest next to her beloved Wally. Those wishing to remember Babe in a special way may direct memorials to The Elizabeth Residence, 5737 Erie St. Caledonia, WI 53402. Babe's extended family would like to thank the entire staff at Elizabeth Residence, Seth R.N. ,CNA's and Hospice Alliance for the excellent care given to Babe in which she found joy and comfort in her final days. Sturino Funeral Home 3014 Northwestern Ave. Racine, WI 53404 (262) 632-4479 www.sturinofuneralhome.com