JOHN MICHAEL KOZORIZ

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JOHN MICHAEL KOZORIZ March 23, 1917 - May 23, 2006 With sadness we announce the passing of our father and grandfather, John Kozoriz at Holy Family Nursing Home in Winnipeg. Predeceased by his wife Nell in January 2006, John leaves to mourn his son Greg (Evelyn) of London, ON and their four children Michael (Kelsey), Kathleen, John and Nicole; daughter Patricia (Andy Sirski) and their children Monica (Lesley Mitchnik), Jonathan, Daniel, Steven and Nicholas; son Russell (Janice) and their children Alexander and Halle; and daughter Elizabeth (Brian Walters). Dad was predeceased by his parents Michael and Ksenia Kozoriz; brother Peter Kozoriz; brothers-in-law Harry Wach and Peter Wach. In addition to his children and grandchildren, Dad is survived by sisters-in-law, Nadia Kozoris, Kathryn Wach, Anne Wach, Ann Wach, Kay Wach, many cousins, nieces, nephews and friends. During his childhood, Dad attended school in East Kildonan. After two years of pre-med studies he completed a year at the provincial Normal School obtaining his Teacher's Certificate. He obtained a Bachelor of Science degree (1942) and a Bachelor of Education degree (1958) from the University of Manitoba. Dad embarked on a 45 year teaching career which included the following schools/locations: Rossdale, MB, Polson School (East Kildonan), Belmont, MB and finally settled with the Winnipeg School Division (David Livingstone, General Wolfe, Machray, Lord Nelson, King Edward, Earl Grey, David Thompson and Elmwood High). In addition, he was Principal of the Elmwood High Evening School from 1958 - 1965 and during 1965 through 1972 served as the Chairman for Biology Examinations with the Provincial Department of Education. During his long teaching career he touched the hearts and minds of students and colleagues, many of whom fondly refer to Big John'. He was very friendly, helpful, and his classes were very enjoyable and memorable. It is Dad's service to community that gives his family special cause for pride. For 25 years, Dad was a member of the Civic Charities Bureau which was responsible for fund raising activities such as bingos and Tag Days; for 15 of these years, he was Chairman of the Bureau. He was given a Citizenship award by Steve Juba for his service. Since 1944, he had been a member of the Knights of Columbus, and, was an Honorary Life Member of St. Josaphat Council. Dad was an active member of BUC, serving as President at parish, provincial and National levels. He held the position of vice-chairman and then later national president of the St. Nicholas Mutual Benefit Association of Canada. As a charter member of the Progress Credit Union, he held the positions of president and chairman of the Board of Directors. Dad's service to his church and its congregation is what gave meaning to his social existence. He served as a cantor in various churches and assisted the clergy in many capacities in the province. He was very active in his church serving as President of Holy Eucharist, bingo caller and organizing church functions. On August 8, 1942 Dad married Nell Wach and they shared 63 years of busy family life with their four children and later on, their 11 grandchildren. Dad and Mom enjoyed travelling and visiting friends and relatives all over the world. Dad enjoyed feeding the ponies' at the racetrack, bowling with the teachers' and church leagues, curling, and he made a point of walking everywhere. The family would like to thank all the staff at Holy Family Nursing Home, especially the St. Paul unit, for all the love and compassion shown to him during his four year stay. A special thank you to all that came and spent some time with him. Prayers will be sung 7:00 p.m. Sunday, May 28 at Holy Eucharist Ukrainian Catholic Church, Munroe Avenue at Watt Street. Rosary will be recited by the Knights of Columbus, St. Josaphat Council. Divine Liturgy will be celebrated 9:30 a.m. Monday, May 29 also at the church with Rev. Fr. M. Winn officiating. Honour Guard will be members of the Holy Eucharist BUC and Knights of Columbus. Interment will follow in All Saints Cemetery. Dad's precious grandchildren will be the pallbearers. Flowers gratefully declned. If friends so desire, memorial donations in John's name may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation or to a charity of your choice. Rest in peace. Vichnaya Pamyat. Eternal memory. KORBAN FUNERAL CHAPEL 956-2193

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on May 27, 2006