Colonel (U.S. Army, Ret.) Bernard M. Kosowski


Bernard Marvin Kosowski, age 83, husband of the late Gail (Lukaszewicz) Kosowski of Valley Forge, Pennsylvania, passed away on Thursday, February 1, 2024 in his residence. Born on July 31, 1940, in Chicago, he was a son of the late Cecelia (Peca) and Francis Kosowski.

Bernie was a proud graduate of St. Rita of Cascia High School in Chicago. He went on to receive his B.S in Chemistry from Purdue University where he was a member of the wresting team, Phi Kappa Sigma fraternity and ROTC. Immediately following graduation, Bernie was commissioned into the U.S. Army, chemical brigade, in 1963. Upon discharge, he continued his honorable service in the US Army Reserve while pursuing his MBA from the University of Chicago. It was also during this time that he began working for Atlantic Richfield Company (ARCO) and married his wife, Gail.

Bernie and Gail moved their young family from Chicago to King of Prussia in 1970. While working for ARCO in Philadelphia, he managed a new specialty chemical business unit that developed and commercialized a polymer binder now used worldwide in solid rocket propellants. He was named Global Business Director, Specialty Chemicals, and established world-wide market plans for chemical lines. In this role, his love for international travel began. After a successful 20 year career at ARCO Bernie left to start his own company. MACH I, Inc. was formed in 1985 with nothing more than a desk and Bernie's undying entrepreneurial spirit. Over the next nearly 40 years, he enjoyed every moment of creating his own business. He started a second company, Reactive Metals International Inc. in 2010.

During his 30 year service in the US Army Reserve, Bernie served as a chemical and ordnance officer. He commanded units at detachment, company, battalion, exercise team, group and brigade level. He was a graduate of the US Army War College and later sat on their Board of Directors. He was a leader and mentor to many young men and women under his command. Bernie achieved the rank of Colonel (selected for Brigadier General) and was awarded the Legion of Merit medal for his exemplary service.

Bernie and Gail moved to their home on Valley Forge Mountain in 1999. This home was a source of pride and joy for Bernie. When he was not at work, Bernie enjoyed cooking for family and friends. He hosted many international visitors in his home and enjoyed sharing his love of Valley Forge with them. He could be found spending time in his gardens with his beloved shih-tzu, Bart, and conure, Rita, by his side. Bernie was happiest when he was surrounded by his many good friends, colleagues and neighbors.

Bernie was the loving father of Brian Kosowski (Michele) and Lori Andrews (Jeff); proud grandfather of Tara Kosowski, Evan Kosowski, Gloria Andrews and Zack Andrews; and dear brother of Audrey Kosowski, Marvin Kosowski (Betsy), Pearl Riggs (Bill) and the late Gloria Kosowski. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend his funeral service on Friday, February 9, 2024 at 11:00 am at the Campbell-Ennis-Klotzbach Funeral Home, Main Street at Fifth Avenue, Phoenixville. Officiating will be Fr. John Gibbons. Interment will follow in the Washington Memorial Chapel Churchyard, Valley Forge. Friends will be received from 10:00 - 11:00 am at the funeral home.

A long time contributor himself, memorial contributions may be made to The American Cancer Society, www.Donate.Cancer.org or by mail at American Cancer Society
P.O. Box 6704 Hagerstown, MD 21741 in memory of Gail Kosowski.

Arrangements are being handled by the Campbell - Ennis - Klotzbach Funeral Home, Inc. Condolences may be offered online at www.PhoenixvilleFuneralHome.com.