SAN ANTONIO – San Antonio business icon Rosemary Kowalski has died at the age of 100.
Kowalski passed away Tuesday following a brief illness, the RK Group and Kowalski family announced. She died while surrounded by family.
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San Antonians have shared their thoughts and memories after the announcement of Kowalski’s death on social media.
San Antonians react to news about death of Rosemary Kowalski
Ceslie Armstrong, CEO of Women in Film & Television Texas and executive producer of The Celestial Awards, released the following statement:
“I’ve known and been inspired by Rosemary Kowalski for decades. I was introduced to her by another original San Antonio trailblazing leader: Mayor Lila Cockrell. Her inspiring leadership as a woman who built a major business that continues to thrive in her image sets the bar high for women everywhere to follow in her footsteps no matter their chosen profession.
“I am so thrilled that Rosemary experienced a rousing standing ovation at The Celestial Awards™ where I serve as executive producer for Women in Film & Television Texas. We named the inaugural award for Excellence in Culinary Arts & Hospitality ‘The Rosemary’ and she told me what a thrill it was to be honored. We have lost a true icon. I’m heartbroken but also happy that her legacy will continue through her charitable giving, leadership ethos, and kindness. May her memory be a blessing."
The Tobin Center released the following statement:
“The Celestial Awards in November was a landmark event for Women in Film and Television Texas underscoring our commitment to empowering and recognizing the outstanding achievements of women who are shaping the future of our industry. The introduction of ‘The Rosemary’ award, named after our beloved Rosemary Kowalski, further cements our dedication to recognizing legacy and excellence in our field. Rosemary’s contributions to culinary arts and hospitality are inspiring and we have lost in incredible icon,” said Callie Hoch, founding Commissioner of Women in Film & Television Texas and co-producer of The Celestial Awards.”
Diana Barrios Trevino of Los Barrios Enterprises and Restaurants issued the following statement:
“The beautiful and kind Rosemary Kowalski was a friend to all as was evident in all her philanthropic efforts! I was fortunate to work next to her as we raised money for Hope For The Future as well as Les Dames d’Escoffier! I’m so blessed to have received The Rosemary Award at The Celestial Awards in November.
Chef Andrew Weissman, who presented “The Rosemary” Award for Excellence in Culinary Arts & Hospitality to Diana Barrios Trevino at The Celestial Awards presented by Women in Film & Television Texas, issued the following statement:
“Family, friends and the city at large experienced a tremendous loss today with the passing of Rosemary Kolwaski. Her contributions not only to family and friends but to the culinary world at large was seismic. She will be missed terribly. May her memory be a blessing to all who knew her.”
Archbishop Gustavo García-Siller released the following statement:
“I give gratitude to God for the beautiful gift of Rosemary Kowalski and her 100 years of life. My prayers are with the family of our sister as we mourn her passing but smile in memory of her inspiration to so many of us in the Archdiocese of San Antonio and the greater community. I am grateful for her generosity and the vivid example she shared with us, as to what it means to serve Christ and His people. She constantly credited her Catholic upbringing for her philanthropic spirit. Rosemary is a legend, one of the city’s most successful businesswomen, whose catering company, The RK Group, has served hundreds of thousands – if not millions -- of meals for the past 70 years across Texas, the United States, and around the world.
“This now international enterprise had humble roots, with Rosemary and her husband opening their first barbecue restaurant on Zarzamora Road in 1946. She said in an interview that one day a customer asked about catering for his church bazaar and, “to tell the truth, I wasn’t even sure what ‘catering’ was!”
“Her positive outlook, strong work ethic, focus on excellence, and ‘Rosemary-isms’ are part of local lore: ‘Always say please and thank you,’ ‘The back door is just as important as the front door,’ ‘Treat everyone with a smile,’ and ‘Attitude is everything.’ From a key role in HemisFair 68, where Rosemary worked to help the city secure the event then provided service and staffing for the pavilion booths, to being the food service provider for the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center for half a century, she said her most amazing experience was being chosen to offer Pope John Paul II all of his meals when he visited San Antonio in 1987. On his final morning in San Antonio, instead of a big breakfast, all the Holy Father wanted was an apple. Rosemary found an apple, polished it, and handed it to him. That encounter was the inspiration for the logo of RK Cares, the company’s philanthropy initiative, which has a hand serving an apple with a little halo over -- a nod to Pope John Paul II and Rosemary.
“But to Rosemary all her meals, and the people she served, were very important. That emphasis on service extended for decades to her philanthropic endeavors for the archdiocese in many capacities, such as San Fernando Cathedral, Catholic Schools, Hope for the Future (Rosemary was the honoree at their gala earlier this year), Catholic Charities (appearing at their Thanksgiving food distribution event to thank volunteers just three weeks ago), and numerous others – giving of her time, talent, and treasure as a true steward. Her faith shined in everything she did and what she did, she did not for personal recognition, but for the honor and glory of God. May she rest in peace.”
Mayor Ron Nirenberg released the following statement:
“Rosemary Kowalski was an icon of San Antonio, whose name is synonymous with hospitality, philanthropy and small business. She was universally admired and leaves a living legacy in her children and grandchildren who continue her mission of sharing San Antonio’s heart with the world. We all learned from her and were touched by her omnipresence in our community over the years. I am left with gratitude for her long life well lived, and the fact that while every community aspires to be known for its hospitality, only San Antonio had a Rosemary Kowalski to make it so.”
District 6 Councilmember Melissa Cabello Havrda released the following statement:
“Rosemary Kowalski was more than a pioneer in business—she was my cherished mentor who touched countless lives with her warmth, wisdom, and unwavering support. Her roots were planted on North Zarzamora Street, becoming a celebrated figure in San Antonio’s culinary and hospitality industries, who grew into exemplified grace and leadership. I am deeply grateful for her kindness and encouragement, which inspired me and so many others to aim higher and lead with compassion. Rest in peace, Rosemary—you will always be remembered as a guiding light for our community and beyond.”
District 8 City Councilmember Manny Pelaez released the following statement:
“It is with profound sadness that we mourn the passing of Rosemary Kowalski, a true icon and beloved pillar of our San Antonio community. Just recently, Rosemary celebrated her remarkable 100th birthday, a milestone that reflects a life filled with extraordinary accomplishments and immeasurable impact. As the founder of Rosemary’s Catering, she built a thriving business that became synonymous with excellence, while her charitable efforts transformed countless lives across our city. Rosemary’s generosity, vision, and dedication to her community will forever be remembered and cherished. We extend our heartfelt condolences to her family, friends, and all who were fortunate enough to know and love her. May her legacy continue to inspire us for generations to come. Rest in peace, Rosemary. You will be deeply missed.”
University Health Foundation released the following statement:
“University Health Foundation is saddened by the news of Rosemary Kowalski’s passing. But, we are celebrating the incredible legacy she leaves behind. Not only was she an incredible donor, but back in 2018, we had the honor of adding her to the University Health Texas Diabetes Institute Wall of Honor. She was a friend to the Foundation and an inspiration to so many in our community.”
Texas Wings released the following statement:
“Today, we reflect on the iconic life of Rosemary Kowalski, whose generosity and vision shaped the San Antonio community and beyond. Rosemary’s generosity enabled WINGS to provide critical care for uninsured women battling breast cancer. She exemplified the power of kindness, inspiring others to lead with compassion and give with purpose. Our hearts are with her family as we reflect on the extraordinary life she led and the countless lives she changed. Thank you, Rosemary, for everything.”
The Harvey E. Najim Charitable Foundation released the following statement:
“Remember Rosemary Kowalski, a true San Antonio icon whose legacy will never be forgotten. From turning a small BBQ restaurant into The RK Group, one of the most successful catering businesses in the nation, Rosemary’s entrepreneurial spirit was matched by her deep commitment to giving back to the community. Her generosity extended to countless local nonprofits, where she supported causes that uplifted families, children, and individuals in need. Whether through donations, event sponsorships, or personal involvement, Rosemary’s impact on San Antonio’s charitable sector is felt today, and her legacy continues to inspire others to give back. She will be missed by many. Thoughts are sent to her family during this difficult time. We honor her remarkable life and the difference she made in so many lives.”
The Village at Incarnate Word Senior Living Community released the following statement:
“Today our community mourns the loss of Rosemary Kowalski - a trailblazer, local leader, and devoted friend of The Village. Rosemary’s dedication to leadership, compassion, and service has left an indelible mark on our hearts and on the fabric of our community. We were honored to recognize her remarkable contributions by presenting her and her family with the Bishop Claude Dubuis Award at the 2019 Champagne & Shamrock Gala. Our heartfelt condolences to the Kowalski family, the RK Group, and everyone whose life was touched by Rosemary’s extraordinary presence.”
The San Antonio Book Festival released the following statement:
“Rosemary Kowalski’s legacy is one of service, generosity, and inspiration. We are grateful for her support of the San Antonio Book Festival since the very beginning. In March, we were honored to have Rosemary attend our annual Book Appétit Literary Feast luncheon as one of her 100 events to celebrate her 100th birthday milestone. Thank you, Rosemary, for inspiring us all to dream big and give back.”
Palo Alto College released the following statement:
“We are deeply saddened by the passing of Rosemary Kowalski, a beloved Palo Alto Honorary Degree recipient and a true pillar of the San Antonio community. Rosemary’s legacy of generosity, leadership, and service has left an incredible mark on our college and city. From her culinary achievements to her charitable contributions, she inspired countless lives. Her spirit will live on in those she touched with her kindness and dedication and here on campus. This photo was taken in 2023 at the San Antonio Women’s Chamber of Commerce Annual Scholarship Luncheon honoring Rosemary with the Spirit of Courage Award. Rest in peace, Rosemary. You will be missed.”
The University of the Incarnate Word released the following statement:
“On behalf of the Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word, the University of the Incarnate Word, Incarnate Word High School, CHRISTUS Health and all of our CCVI-sponsored ministries, we would like to offer our sincere condolences to the family of Rosemary Kowalski. Rosemary led a beautiful life of service to others, and she epitomized grace in that service for decades in both her professional and personal endeavors. As an Incarnate Word High School alumna, Rosemary was a close friend and supporter to all our ministries, and we want to thank her for her decades of service and support. The Sisters are in prayer for Rosemary and the Kowalski family. In the words of our faith: Eternal rest grant unto her, O Lord, and let the perpetual light shine upon her. May the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.”
Musical artist Rick Cavender released the following statement:
“What a wonderful blessing it was to know Rosemary Kowalski as a special friend. This photo comes from when she spoke at our Rotary Club luncheon…a rail stop on her 100 days of celebration in her 100th year of life. I was honored to perform the Platters classic ‘Only You.’ The lyrics speak perfectly to her. ‘Only you can make this world seem right. Only you can make the darkness bright’ She made every day brighter for all of us. Our prayers are with the Kowalski Family on the sad news of her passing."
The Texas Cavaliers River Parade released the following statement:
“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 100 years 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.” She was not just a prominent San Antonio figure, but a luminous example of compassion and generosity that brightened the lives of countless individuals.We extend our heartfelt condolences to her family and celebrate a life magnificently lived. Rosemary Kowalski - we honor you.”
The San Antonio Food Bank released the following statement:
“From all of us at the San Antonio Food Bank, we express our deepest regards to the Kolawski family and the RK Group in the loss of our city’s beloved Rosemary Kolawski. She was a leader of industry. She was a captain of food service and catering, delivering at so many events, making us all feel so special. Thank you, Rosemary, for a life of service, a life of putting food on the table and making everyone feel loved. We’ll miss you.”
Latin Grammy Winner Roger Velasquez released the following statement:
“Today we lost yet another San Antonio legend. Rosemary Kowalski, a grand patron of the Arts and a supporter of just cause who touched the lives of many, including me. Our condolences to the Kowalski family and all those that morn her loss. Rest in peace dear Rosemary.”
Yolanda Valenzuela, CEO of Alamo City Consultants, released the following statement:
“Rosemary Kowalski, founder of the RK group, has passed after recently celebrating her 100th birthday. Such an inspiration to so many people, young and old. She gained her angel wings, but will never be forgotten for her service to others. Her age did not slow her down from attending events. In the last several months, since turning 100, I saw her multiple times at luncheons. Rest in peace.”
