Remembering Frank E. Kowalski

MIAMI – It is with a profound sense of loss that we announce the passing of 2005 Florida Realtors President Frank E. Kowalski, founder and CEO of Metro Dade Realty in Miami.

Frank was a benevolent leader whose tenure was marked by groundbreaking initiatives, such as his advocacy for the Commercial Real Estate Sales Commission Lien Act, which was signed into law in 2005, his commitment to Realtor excellence through Graduate, Realtor Institute training for new licensees and his support for integrating technology tools into the profession.

Frank’s 52-year career was defined by a spirit of service and a commitment to excellence. Always a champion for what he believed in, he used his leadership roles to make a difference where it counted most. In 1980, as the youngest president in the Miami Board’s then-60-year history, he vigorously fought against double-digit interest rates. After four hurricanes hit Florida shortly before he took office, he pledged to help Realtors impacted by the storms get their businesses back up and running – and, true to his word, he did. He was named Florida Realtors’ 2007 Realtor of the Year for his tireless contributions to his community as well as local, state and national real estate associations.

“Our hearts are heavy as we remember Frank Kowalski, a true icon in the Florida real estate industry,” says Gia Arvin, 2024 Florida Realtors president. “His visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to excellence have left an indelible mark on our profession. From his advocacy for crucial legislation to his dedication to Realtor training and technology integration, his presence was a powerful influence on all our leaders who followed him. Our deepest condolences go out to Frank’s wife, Norma, his son and business partner Frank J. Kowalski, and the rest of his family during this difficult time.”

Our association is just one of many organizations honored to be part of Frank’s legacy.

He was founding president of the Florida Council of Residential Specialists, national CRS president and former chairman of the Florida Real Estate Commission, held leadership roles in the Miami Association of Realtors® and the National Association of Realtors®, and was a long-time contributor to the Realtors Political Action Committee. He also dedicated 46 years of his life to serving as an independent insurance broker, safeguarding the futures of countless individuals and families throughout South Florida. 

Frank E. Kowalski will be laid to rest Monday, April 1, at Caballero Rivero Woodlawn South, 11655 SW 117th Ave., Miami, FL 33186. A viewing is scheduled for 10 a.m., followed by a service at 1:30 p.m.

© 2024 Florida Realtors®