Kathy Ann Bilowus

Bilowus, Katherine "Kathy" Ann, 66, Williamsburg, MI, went to Heaven on June 22, 2022. Her soul left her body at her dream home in the arms of her beloved husband, George Bilowus. Born October 31, 1955, in Johnstown, PA, daughter of Charles Simerick and Kathryn (Paulovich) Simerick, she was the third and final child born to Charles and Kathryn. She has two older brothers Very Rev. Fr. Michael Simerick married to Protinica Linda (Johnson), and brother, Ronald Simerick married to Prudy (DiMarco). Growing up a proud coal miner's daughter, Kathy and her family moved around quite a bit, mainly in Pennsylvania and Ohio. She learned to adapt and make new friends, while getting to know the extended family on both sides of her parents.
Kathy and her brothers were first generation children to graduate high school and then to pursue even higher education. Kathy knew at an early age, she had a love for working with children. That love was recognized by others as a gift and talent, leading Kathy to pursue a career as a Certified Special Education Teacher. Graduating in December 1976 with a Bachelor of Science, and receiving her teaching certificate from California University of Pennsylvania (then known commonly as Cal State), Kathy worked with a variety of children in the public schools of Ohio. Kathy's work touched many children's lives, with them often contacting her even years later, wanting to stay in touch and let her know the positive impact she had on their lives.
In July 1981, she met the love of her life George Roman Bilowus in church. Kathy and George were immediately drawn to each other and introduced by a mutual friend during coffee hour, that very day. George, being in the Navy, did not have much leave time, but Kathy and George made the most of their time together that summer. United in prayer, communication, and a growing love, their romance blossomed. They were engaged St. Patty's Day 1982, with their marriage taking place September 5, 1982. To date, their marriage has spanned nearly 40 years.
Kathy loved being married, maintaining a home, and engaged in outreach. She greatly enjoyed theater and performing arts. From winning the Ted Mack Amateur Hour Contest in college to performing in the Music Man, Kathy had a talent for the stage.
During the 1980s, she longed for a child and Kristina was born on December 1, 1987. To say that Kathy enjoyed being a mother, is understated. Kathy, George, Kristina (and their puppy Che-Che) resided in New Jersey until June 1989. Kathy and George loved Fredericksburg, Virginia, when they had vacationed there previously. And it was in Fredericksburg, where the family moved and built a home. Kathy's second daughter, Juliana, was born on December 29, 1991. From day one, Kathy was invested in the upbringing, care, and love of her children.
For almost two decades, Kathy home schooled her daughters from kindergarten until high school graduation. She instilled a love of learning, personal achievement, and intellectual curiosity in her children. She also became a licensed tour guide in the historic town of Fredericksburg, became involved with performing in the local Renaissance Fair, and sang in her church choirs.
She and her family moved to Novi, Michigan in April of 2003. Kathy longed to be physically closer to her relatives in Michigan, Ohio, and Pennsylvania. And that was one of the main reasons for the move. Upon getting settled in Michigan, Kathy was very active in her churches and wildlife preservation and conservation. This led to Kathy taking on several leadership roles. First, she successfully lobbied and saved a wildlife refuge in Novi. Secondly, She campaigned for a local candidate for city council as well as presidential candidate Dr. Ben Carson. While Kathy often thought of herself as "behind the scenes," she led many as she spearheaded these initiatives. Additionally, while not a innately political person, Kathy was passionate about causes she cared about and not the political party. This was evidenced by her support of her local candidate and Dr. Carson, where both were from different political ideologies.
Which leads to the most important aspects of Kathy's life. She loved the natural beauty of the Great Creator, treasured Anishinaabe culture and heritage, loved animals, and cared so deeply. She wanted to be a friend to all, bonding with everyone she met - from grocer to neighbor; to lawn care provider to distant relatives. She wanted to leave the world better than she found it. And she accomplished, even in her final days, she reached out to others and wanted to connect. While she is gone much too soon, and is too young, she is made whole by the Lord and Great Creator.
"Meegwetch" Kathy, for everything you did to improve the lives of others around you. We celebrate your life.
Preceded in death by parents; Kathy is survived by husband George, daughter Kristina Bilowus (partner Christopher Wickman), and daughter Dr. Juliana Alessio-Bilowus (husband Dominic Alessio-Bilowus). Survived by brother, Very Rev. Fr. Michael Simerick married to Protinica Linda (Johnson), and brother, Ronald Simerick married to Prudy (DiMarco). Kathy was a dedicated aunt, survived by her two nieces and nephews, their spouses, and children. Additionally, she was thrilled to be a great grand aunt. She loved her two fur babies, Angeni and Ayashe. Visitation will be on Thursday, June 30, from 11am-12pm, with the funeral service taking place immediately after. Both visitation and funeral will take place at Archangel Gabriel Orthodox Church (7111 US-31 N, Williamsburg, MI 49690).
Memorial contributions may be directed to Grand Travere Conservation District. (1450 Cass Rd, Traverse City, MI 49685, https://natureiscalling.org/ ) The family is working on a special memorial in honor of Kathy; please contact Kristina prior to making a donation. ( kristinabilowus@yahoo.com )