ILION – Mr. Zigmond J. “Ziggy” Kowalski, age 97, a lifelong Herkimer and Ilion resident, passed away peacefully early Wednesday morning, January 13, 2021 at the Mohawk Valley Health System, St. Luke’s Campus. Born on April 6, 1923, Zigmond was the son of the late Michael and Bernice (Pedzimacz) Kowalski. He was raised and educated in Herkimer, graduating from Herkimer High School. He went on to further his education and received his Associate’s Degree. On December 30, 1942, Ziggy enlisted with the United States Army and was a proud veteran of World War II. He received his honorable discharge on September 3, 1943. He remained a lifelong member of the American Legion and at one time played drums for their band. On June 25, 1949, Zigmond was wed to the former Wanda Baker at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Little Falls. For over seventy years, the two shared in a blessed and loving union, encompassed by a mutual respect and devotion for one another. Ziggy lost his beloved, Wanda, on July 29, 2019, and his family takes comfort in knowing the two are once again reunited in Heaven. Ziggy spent his career with Remington Arms in Ilion, working his way to a position as Senior Process Engineer and retiring after over forty-five years of employment. He was a life member of the Herkimer Knights of Columbus and a parishioner of the Church of the Annunciation in Ilion. In his spare time, Ziggy enjoyed his garden and flowers. He tended to his home meticulously and was a skilled carpenter and craftsman. Ziggy is survived by his nieces and nephew, Mary Ann Krzewicki, Patsy Weeden, Amy Muraca, Ricky Pickert, and Godson, Michael Krzewicki; and a special niece and nephew, Jean and John Richard, who always made sure Ziggy was cared for in every way. A special thank you is extended to Ziggy’s home healthcare aides for showing him love, compassion and excellent care during his last years. They truly gave him the gift of remaining in his home right up to his recent hospital stay. In light of current health restrictions, Ziggy’s family will gather in a private ceremony to bid their farewells to him. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place at the Church of the Annunciation, followed by final interment in St. Mary’s Cemetery in East Herkimer, where he will be laid to rest with his beloved, Wanda. For those wishing to do so, please consider donations in the form of a Mass Card to the Church of the Annunciation, 109 West Street, Ilion, NY 13357. Ziggy’s final wishes were pre-arranged and entrusted to Harry and Kevin Enea and Martin L. Ciaccia, Funeral Directors of the Enea & Ciaccia Family Funeral Home, 4309 Acme Road, Town of Frankfort, Ilion, NY (315) 894-8000. Online notes of sympathy may be left at www.eneafamily.com.