James L. Kohnowich died on Jan. 22, 2023. He was born in Saddle Brook, New Jersey on Dec. 23, 1948, to John and Julia (Thompson) Kohnowich. He is survived by his children Katie and John (Jenna); grandchildren Asher and Lilah; his sister Leslie (Jim) and nephews Jeff and Dave.
Jim, as he was known, found joy in being a friendly neighbor; helpful friend; loving father and talented carpenter. Jim moved to Vermont after graduating college to surround himself with nature. He loved to ski and spent his early years working in ski tune shops and hitting the slopes of Killington. He was an avid fisher, reader and craftsman. He shared his love and fascination with wildlife and the outdoors with his children all their lives.
Jim was an accomplished swimmer. While at Southern Connecticut State University he won a total of 11 All-American awards in swimming. He won the NCAA Division II championship in the 100-yard freestyle in 1969. In 1994 he was inducted into the SCSU hall of fame, where he continues to hold the record for All-American awards.
He is preceded in death by his parents and older brother John, who passed from childhood leukemia. Please consider making a donation to Saint Jude’s hospital in his name to help others fight childhood cancer.
