Ronald L. Karbowski, 63, of North Brookfield, died Saturday, January 2nd in UMass-Memorial Hospital, Worcester, after being stricken ill at home.

    He leaves his wife of 43 years, Nancy M. (Lefebvre) Karbowski; a son, Christopher M. Karbowski and his wife Melanie of Brookfield; a daughter, Bonni Lee A. Holmes and her husband David of North Brookfield; eight grandchildren, James M. and Grace Y. Karbowski of Brookfield and Nicole D., Gabrielle A., Faith E., Jeremiah D., Olivia L., and Emma M. Holmes, all of North Brookfield. He was predeceased by a grandson, Tyler J. Karbowski.

    He was born in Worcester, the son of Louis J. and Dorothy C. (Ernst) Karbowski, grew up in Auburn and lived in Spencer for many years, before moving to North Brookfield.

    Mr. Karbowski worked for the Norton Company-St. Gobain for 39 years, retiring as Product Safety Manager in January of 2009. After retiring, he worked as a private consultant. He graduated from Commerce High School, Worcester Junior College, and graduated from Central New England College. He attended Nichols College as he worked towards his Masters Degree. He was a member of St. Joseph’s Church, the United Abrasives Manufacturing Association, and the American Legion Post 41. Ronald was an avid woodworker and golfer. Mr. Karbowski was proud to have served in the United States Air Force.

    The funeral is Thursday, January 7th with a Mass at 10:30 A.M. in St. Joseph’s Church, 296 Main Street (Please go directly to Church.) Burial will be in Worcester County Memorial Park, Paxton. Calling hours are from 4:00 until 7:00 P.M. Wednesday, January 6th in O’CONNOR BROTHERS FUNERAL HOME, 592 Park Avenue, Worcester. Contributions may be made to St. Joseph’s Church, 28 Mt. Pleasant Street, North Brookfield, MA 01535.