John Kowalik facts for kids
| No. 45 | |
 |
|
| Born: | May 10, 1910 |
|---|---|
| Died: | January 7, 1978 (aged 67) Detroit, Michigan |
| Career information | |
| Position(s) | Guard |
| Height | 5 ft 10.5 in (179 cm) |
| Weight | 190 lb (86 kg) |
| College | Michigan |
| NFL draft | 1936 / Round: 2 |
| Career history | |
| As player | |
| 1934 | Ottawa Rough Riders |
John F. Kowalik, Sr. (born May 10, 1910 – died January 7, 1978) was an American football player. He is best known for his time playing college football at the University of Michigan. He also played professionally for a short time.
Contents
John Kowalik's Football Journey
John Kowalik was born in 1910. He grew up to become a talented football player. His career included playing for a top college team and a professional team.
Playing for the Michigan Wolverines
John Kowalik played college football for the University of Michigan. He was a key player from 1931 to 1933. During his three years as a starter, the Michigan football team had an amazing record. They won 24 games, lost only 1, and had 2 ties.
This incredible success led to two national championships. The team won these titles in 1932 and 1933. John Kowalik was part of both championship teams. He even played alongside Gerald Ford, who later became a President of the United States.
While at Michigan, John was also part of the Alpha Tau Omega fraternity. He graduated in 1934. He earned a bachelor of science degree in education.
Playing Pro Football
After college, John Kowalik continued his football career. He played professionally for the Ottawa Rough Riders. This was a Canadian team. He played for them in 1934.
His Family and Later Life
John Kowalik was married to Frances LaRowe. They had four children together. Their son, John Jr., also loved football. He followed in his father's footsteps. John Jr. played college football for the University of Michigan from 1960 to 1962. John and Frances also had three daughters: Carolyn, Mary, and Janet.
In his later years, John Kowalik lived in Franklin, Michigan. He worked as an automotive sales manager. John passed away in January 1978. He died at Grace Hospital in Detroit.
