Mark Peter Kowaleske

Mark Peter Kowaleske, 71, of Basking Ridge NJ, passed away peacefully on July 17, 2026. 

Born in Southington, CT on March 5, 1955, Mark lived in Basking Ridge, NJ and Cromwell, CT for many years. Mark was a proud graduate of the University of Vermont. He had a successful career as an insurance executive, having worked for The Hartford Insurance Co. and Chubb Mutual Insurance Co. He was a Vice President of The Prudential Insurance Co.,and lastly working for Guardian Insurance in Manhattan. 

Mark loved cooking and baking, was a wonderful gardener and always strived to keeping his homes looking beautiful. He loved to entertain and have dinner parties ,computers, reading, traveling and playing golf. Mark had lifelong friends and continued to create new friendships wherever he went. He was close to his large family. 

Mark is survived by his partner, spouse, and soulmate, Gregory Dondero, with whom he shared 44 beautiful years. He is survived by dear sisters, Daria Omichinski of Ellington, CT, and Kyra Kowaleski- Pham (Willy Pham) of Terryville, CT, and brother Joel Kowaleski (Julie Kowaleski) of Cheshire, CT. He is also survived by his uncle John Kovaleski and aunt Bonnie Kablesh, as well as many cherished nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Peter and Lovey (Kablesh) Kowaleski of Terryville, CT, and infant nephew Alec Jon Omichinski.

 A memorial service for Mark will be held on Saturday, August 15th, from 10:00am to 12:00pm at Galante Funeral Home located at 2800 Morris Avenue in Union.