PBL loses long-time player, friend and mentor

For the second year in a row the PBL family has lost a long-time player, friend and teammate.

Pat Kawalilak, who played with the Holden Blue Jays the last few seasons, died suddenly of health complications this week.

Kawalilak was a PBL all star for many seasons. He played with the Brewers when I came into the league in the late 90s and helped restart his original team in Holden, acting as a mentor for the new Holden team that almost won a PBL championship in 2011.

The left-handed batting Kawalilak played with many different tournament teams over the course of his baseball career as well. Once he reached his twilight days, he’d head to nationals with various teams such as the Brewers or the Spring Lake Masters.

As with most guys in the league we play against, you end up having a special bond for some reason that is unrivalled with any league or teams I’ve ever played in. Even if you don’t talk or hang out with them much. Part of it is the sport of baseball. The other part is the small town feel.

Pat epitomized both with solid baseball and off-field presence.

The young players in Holden whom he became a father to will miss him, as will us in the rest of the league.

“He was like a dad to his teammates. An original Blue Jay that will be dearly missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Pat’s family. RIP,” tweeted the Holden Blue Jays.

“Terribly sad day for @HoldenBlueJays. It was an honor to play alongside you pat!” tweeted Blue Jay Logan Skori.


Pay your respects to Pat and his family

Donations can be made to the Edmonton Humane Society or the Bruce Oldtimers Hockey team. A memorial word service takes place Tuesday, Feb. 26, at 11 a.m. at Viking Community Hall.

View Pat’s obituary and send your condolences.

Pat played in the Powerline Baseball League for many many years. As a respected opponent and teammate he will be missed. All the PBL teams wish the best to his family and friends during this difficult time.