WILMINGTON — Mary Lou Kowal, age 91, of Wilmington, NC passed away October 9, 2026. She was born in Chicago, IL on July 1, 1935, to the late William & Virginia Belle (Sumner) Webb.
Mary Lou is survived by her son, David Grimes (Maryann) of Mattawan, MI and daughter Elizabeth Grimes (Lori) of Wilmington, NC. Grandchildren, Kate Veilleux (Josh), Taylor Grimes and Cally Grimes (fiancé, Sully). Cousins Joyce Bader (Richard) and Judy Doyle (Mike). Sister-in-law, Barbara Webb. Cousin-in-law, Karlene Worcester. Nieces & nephews including David Webb.
She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, Honorable Edward Kowal, brother, Roger Webb and cousin, Gary Worcester.
Mary Lou grew up in Oak Park, IL and lived in Naperville & Glen Ellyn, IL prior to moving to Wilmington, NC in 2011. She attended Monticello College and later worked as a dental assistant and court matron. In 1973 she married the Honorable Edward Kowal, and they shared 33 years together prior to his passing in 2010.
Mary Lou was a Lifetime member of the Order of the Eastern Star, International Graphoanalysis Society, American Association of Handwriting Analysts and a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution and Windemere Presbyterian Church. Mary Lou was extremely proud of becoming a Certified Graphoanalyst and was hired by many businesses to assist in hiring and personnel screening.
A graveside service will be held at a later date when her cremains are inurned in the family plot in Naperville Cemetery, Naperville, IL.
