Malcolm David Karnowski

Malcolm David Karnowski, age 98, of Southview Acres, W St. Paul and formerly of Deerwood, MN, passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 17, 2025, in West St. Paul, surrounded by loved ones.

Malcolm was born on May 8, 1927, in Crosby, MN, to Anna Marie (Olson) Karnowski and David Herman Karnowski. He was raised in Deerwood and graduated from Crosby-Ironton High School.  In 1957, Malcolm married Ramona Lind, whom he met while they were both working at Honeywell in Minneapolis. Together they raised four children in Bloomington, MN, before eventually returning to Deerwood to enjoy the timeless views of Serpent Lake.

Malcolm lived a full and adventurous life. He was in the Merchant Marine and U.S. Army, serving in WWII and the Korean Conflict. A lifelong outdoorsman, he found great joy in hunting, fishing, and spending time with his family. He taught flying lessons, had a long and successful career with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), and was honored with the Wright Brothers Master Pilot Award for over 50 years of safe flying.

He is survived by his brother, David Karnowski; his four children, Michele Smith, Kay (David) Sponsel, Daniel (Marni) Karnowski, and Roxann Jackson; his grandchildren, Erica Smith, Emily Smith, Daniel (Laura) Jackson, Matthew (Tabitha) Jackson, Jenna Sponsel, Allison Sponsel and Hailey Karnowski; and his great grandchildren, Emma Jackson, James Jackson, Emberly Burnham and Vincent Kihlstadius.

Preceding Malcolm in death are his beloved wife, Ramona Karnowski; brother, Darwin Karnowski; sister, Virginia Platisha; and son-in-law, James Jackson.

A Memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, July 26, 2025 at Walter Scott Erickson American Legion in Deerwood. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at Legion. Burial will be at the Scandia Cemetery in Deerwood.  Arrangements are with the Koop Funeral Home in Crosby.