Kenneth Jadlowiec

 

 

The Hon. Kenneth M. Jadlowiec, 73, of Englewood, former Pennsylvania state representative, passed away Tuesday (Aug. 13, 2024) at Sarasota Memorial Hospital.

Born Jan. 12, 1951, he was the son of Edward J. Jadlowiec and Stella Przygucki Jadlowiec.

Ken graduated from North Hills High School in Pittsburgh, Pa., in 1968 and attended Edinboro (Pa.) University until 1971. On July 17, 1971, he married Denise Mackowski, who survives. Together, they raised two sons, Kenneth Edward (Traci) Jadlowiec of Marysville, Pa., and Brian Matthew Jadlowiec of Bradford, Pa. He is also survived by his sister, Christine AcKinclose of Alpharetta, Ga.; and his brother, Michael (Kathy) Jadlowiec of Cranberry Township, Pa. Ken was a proud grandfather to two grandsons, Alex and Austin Jadlowiec. He is also survived by his uncle, Henry Jadlowiec; along with several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Preceding Ken in death were his parents, Edward and Stella Jadlowiec; as well as his brother-in-law, Bruce AcKinclose.

Ken began his career in 1971, working for Beneficial Finance before moving into sales for James R. Evans Clothing in 1972. His natural inclination to help others guided him into the political arena. Recognizing his talent for finding solutions, Ken decided to run for district magistrate in 1982 and was successfully elected. His leadership was quickly recognized, and he went on to become president of the Special Court Judges District 2. In 1987, Ken was elected as a Republican to the Pennsylvania State House of Representatives, where he served with distinction for eight consecutive terms. During his tenure, he was appointed to the Select Committee on Domestic Violence and Rape Crisis Services in Pennsylvania in 1990, reflecting his commitment to critical social issues.

As a member of the House, Ken served on several key committees, including Consumer Affairs as Majority Chairman, the Subcommittee on Public Utilities, Environmental Resources and Energy, Veterans' Affairs, Emergency Preparedness, and the Liquor Control Policy Committee. His unopposed consecutive re-elections were a testament to his ability to address the needs of his constituents and the trust he earned from voters.

Beyond his political career, Ken was deeply committed to his community. He served on the McKean County Board of Assistance as well as Futures Rehabilitation Center and Literacy Volunteers, among other boards. His impact on the community was profound and lasting.

Ken was a steadfast supporter of the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford. He was first elected to Pitt-Bradford's Advisory Board in 1987 and at the time of his death was an emeritus member of the board. During his time in the House of Representatives, Ken helped to secure necessary state funding for the development and growth of the campus, including $7 million to build a 50,000 square-foot addition to what is now the Richard E. McDowell Sport and Fitness Center. To recognize his longtime commitment to Pitt-Bradford, the fitness center facility in the McDowell building, where Ken spent many hours working out, was named the Ken Jadlowiec Fitness Center in 2003.

Ken's exemplary career speaks volumes, but it was his personal values as a devoted husband, father and community advocate that truly define the man he was. In 1980, Ken played a pivotal role in launching the Bradford area's soccer program alongside Fred Gallup. Together, they formed a team and traveled to games, coaching the players every step of the way. Ken was also known for his enthusiasm for basketball, often joining games with players of all ages. His signature move, the "finger roll," earned him the affectionate nickname "Big Daddy" in the community.

Ken was a man of quiet strength and deep convictions. His unwavering love and dedication to his family earned him deep respect from those who knew him. He instilled in his sons a deep appreciation for nature, and many of their fondest memories together were spent fishing at Kinzua Dam, especially at Sugar Bay. Ken also set an invaluable example of caring for extended family with his "on-call" attitude whenever his in-laws needed help. If he was in town, he was there for them, embodying a legacy of compassion that will remain invaluable to all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to the following causes that were dear to Ken's heart: Boca Cares, 1601 Englewood Road, Englewood, FL 34223; St. Bernard Church, 95 E. Corydon St., Bradford, PA 16701, or (814) 362-6825; or Futures Rehabilitation Center, 1 Futures Way, Bradford, or (814) 368-4101.

Arrangements are under direction of Farley Funeral Home.