Stanley Karkowski

Stanley J. Karkowski was a devoted husband, loving dad, proud grandpa, and a friend to many. He loved his family deeply, and his greatest joy came from the time he spent making memories with those he loved. Stan passed away surrounded by his family on August 3, 2026 at his home in Montello.

Stan found joy in helping others: offering advice, lending a hand, or using his remarkable ability to fix or build just about anything. Among his many projects, perhaps none reflected his heart more than the beautiful garden he created for his beloved wife, a lasting symbol of the love, care, and dedication he brought to everything he did.

A proud United States Marine, Stan lived a life of strength, service, and adventure. He loved the outdoors, embraced the values of scouting, and encouraged others to explore, learn, and take the road less traveled. Through his actions, he showed the importance of hard work, curiosity, and self-reliance.

Stan cherished life’s simple pleasures, like gathering around a bonfire, watching a good movie, attending car shows, spending time outdoors, and taking the scenic route whenever he could. He had an incredible sense of humor, a quick wit, and a way of making everyone around him feel welcome. His unforgettable dad jokes filled every room with laughter and brought smiles to everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Stan leaves behind a lifetime of memories, laughter, wisdom, and unconditional love. The greatest gift he gave was the example he set: to work hard, love deeply, face challenges with courage, and always make time for the people who matter most.

He will be remembered in the moments that bring us together like hearing the familiar tune of The Beverly Hillbillies, working on a new project, and by enjoying the outdoors he loved so much. His love for sharing stories around a fire will reside in those he loved in the years to come. Though he will be deeply missed, his legacy lives on in the lessons he taught, the kindness he gave, and the love he so freely shared. Though he is gone from our sight, he will forever remain in our hearts, guiding us through the memories we hold dear.

Stanley will receive full military honors along with private services at the Crawford Funeral Home in Montello. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Stanley’s memory may be made to support their compassionate work at www.agrace.org/donate.

Our family is forever grateful to the compassionate team at Agrace Hospice for the love, kindness, and dignity they provided to Stan and our family.

Crawford Funeral and Cremation Service of Montello and Oxford is honored to be serving the family. www.CrawfordFH.com