Richard J. "Dick" Kozera

NORRISTOWN, Pa. - Richard J. "Dick" Kozera, M.D. FACP, 74, who served as an executive faculty member at Temple University Medical School for the past 27 years, passed away suddenly Wednesday, Aug. 13, 2014.

Richard was born in Northampton, and raised in nearby Hadley, where he graduated from Hopkins Academy in 1957. Richard began his life of academic endeavors and accomplishments at Amherst College and graduated with an A.B. in chemistry in 1961. Richard then attended medical school at Yale University in New Haven, Connecticut, where he graduated in 1965 with his M.D. Afterwards, he enlisted in the United States Navy and completed his residency in internal medicine and endocrinology at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center. Richard was later deployed and served during the Vietnam War as Lieutenant Commander with the 1st Marine Division of the U.S. Naval Medical Corps. Afterwards, Richard was chief of medical services at the Veterans Administration Hospital in Cincinnati, as well as serving as a professor of medicine at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center. In 1987, he moved to Pennsylvania to accept a position at Temple University as a professor of internal medicine and senior associate dean.

Over the course of his extensive career, Richard was dedicated to imparting his all-encompassing knowledge to Temple's School of Medicine and ensured that only the highest standards would be adhered to by future doctors. Richard's work ethic was exemplary and attention to detail unequaled. Known to be the go-to man on campus, he showed compassion and understanding for all through an unfailing open door policy where colleagues, students, and friends sought his advice for all things professional, medical and personal. These attributes were exemplified as he strode to the podium during White Coat and Graduation Ceremonies where every new medical student or doctor was assured that he knew their name.

Richard, who had three times served as the acting dean, was Temple School of Medicine's Executive Associate Dean at the time of his death. He was board certified in internal medicine, medical examination, and endocrinology. He was also a valued member of countless professional organizations including the American College of Physicians, American Diabetes Association, and the Pennsylvania Medical Society.

Richard was an avid golfer and skillful pianist. Though obviously extremely intelligent, he will always be remembered for his sharp wit and down to earth personality. He was always a calming presence among his family and friends.

Richard is survived by his three children, Leslie, Brian (Kristin), and Matthew (Amanda) and three granddaughters, Paige, Josephine and Avery. He was preceded in death by his wife,Virginia Utter Kozera.

Visitation with the family will be held at Boyd-Horrox Funeral Home, 200 West Germantown Pike, Norristown, PA 19401, on Tuesday, Aug. 19, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. and Wednesday, Aug. 20, from 9 to 10:15 a.m., followed by funeral services.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Richard's honor can be made payable to Temple University School of Medicine, Office of Institutional Advancement, 3500 North Board St., 11th floor, Philadelphia, PA 19140. Please include "The Richard Kozera, MD, Memorial Fund" in the notes line.

To sign a Guest Book, express condolences, share memories and read other obituaries, go to www.gazettenet.com/obituaries.