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Joseph Koz Obituary
Born in Worcester, MA, December 18, 1942, Joe was an athlete, warrior, scholar, and businessman. A graduate of the United States Military Academy, he served in the Air Force for 30 years, flying 350 combat missions as a fighter pilot during two tours in Viet Nam. Subsequent military assignments included dean of students at the United States Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, CO; and U.S. defense attaché to Israel. Among his professional achievements in civilian life were being named vice president and provost at Valley Forge Academy and College, PA; and founding New Horizons International, a corporate consulting firm.
Joe was an exceptional athlete. He was a star basketball player at St. Mary's High School in Worcester, MA, and later at West Point. He captained the Army basketball team in 1965 under renowned coach, Bobby Knight, capping his collegiate career with outstanding play in the National Invitational Tournament. Joe was inducted into the New England Basketball Hall of Fame in 2009. He was also an avid golfer and tennis player.
Always a world traveler, Joe's residence for the last four years was aboard the ocean liner, The World, from which he conducted business while circumnavigating the globe. He described himself as a "corporate troubleshooter," consulting for an extensive roster of international clients, and drawing on a network of strategically located experts.
Joe is mourned by his wife, Ann (Menn) Koz; two daughters, Dawn Goforth and Julie Calvo; son, Joseph Koz; and seven grandchildren. He is also survived by his mother, Jayne Kosciusko, and sister, Janice Narel. A large and devoted extended family-with whom Joe maintained affectionate contact-also grieves his passing.
A memorial scholarship for scholar athletes will be established in Joe's name. Contributions to the "Joseph P. Koz Memorial Scholarship Fund" can be sent to 13035 Apple Tree Lane, Dewitt, MI 48820.
A Mass of remembrance will be conducted at 11 a.m., Saturday, May 8, at the Historic Church, St. Mary of Sorrows Catholic parish in Fairfax, VA, followed by a reception.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Tony Aguirre
December 12, 2010
Dear Joe searching for you and my other UPT classmates on face book I learned of your passing. It is with heavy heart and deep sadness that I write this short message, and with a terrible regret that I did not find you before your early departure to express to you and Ann my most sincere thanks for the advice you gave me that made me decide to marry my wife Joyce. It was the greatest thing that ever happenned to me and I owe it all to you.
So long my dear friend I know in my hearth that I will see you again in God's Glory.
Tony Aguirre, West Palm Beach, Florida
Jon Vogler
May 10, 2010
Joe, I was so saddened by your passing and since I learned of it ten days ago, you have been on my mind constantly. I truly will miss working with you. We started as business associates and ended up as friends and a friend for whom I had the greatest respect, for you chose honor over the dollar. You will be missed.
Carole Smith
May 10, 2010
As I mourn my husband, Herb Smith, Class of 65, who passed on May 4th, I know the deep sorrow and sense of loss you must all be feeling. I look forward to being with Herb again some joyous day as you will be with your loved one.
Linda Baykent
May 10, 2010
Oh Joe, I'm so sorry. You were so positive and had such a wonderful spirit that is an example to us all. You were a beacon of light in a world that is often so dark. I will miss your wise words and counsel. My condolences to all your family.
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Catherine Poggioli-Ravignon
May 7, 2010
Mon Cher Joseph, " friendship is a star in our sky" you used to say.... but now night is so dark, no more "Hello", no more tomorrow and soon , no more your wise and lighty words.....
show me your star Joseph, hope you will find new beautiful golf courses there... and shine for ever in our hearts....
thank you to have been on this earth but....for a too short while.....
Kitten
Daniel Doyle
May 5, 2010
Joe was a genuine American hero, and a personal hero of mine as a boy growing up in Worcester. He was also a hero of the young men who made up the great 1964 St. Mary’s New England Championship team, a team of guys who reflected the very best of sport. And, of course, Joe was one of the best basketball players ever to come out of the City of Worcester, a scholar-athlete who went on to accomplish extraordinary things over the course of his exemplary life. Last October, we had the pleasure of inducting Joe into the New England Basketball Hall of Fame. It was a thrill for me to meet him.
My condolences to Joe's family, including his cousin, and my good friend, Peter Rojcewicz.
Daniel E. Doyle Jr.,
West Hartford, Connecticut
Paul Dube
May 5, 2010
Joe Kosciusko is an athlete, scholar, and friend that will always be fondly remembered in my heart and thoughts.
I will never forget the rivalry between St Mary's and Holy Name, in basketball and baseball.
"Koz" you will be missed.
Love, Paul Dube (Holy Name Graduate Class of 1960)
Chet Dymek
May 5, 2010
Joe was a real American hero, and a role model who never let those who knew him down. Early on I was inspired by his work ethic and athletic talent and enjoyed writing about his achievements on the court and in the field in the Marionette. Then I saw first hand his commitment to the mission of the Air Force Academy, and even got the real treat of playing some pickup basketball with him there. And when our paths crossed in Israel, he was as gracious as if we had just left St. Mary’s. He was a star in all respects. My deepest sympathy goes to all he left behind.
Julie Koz Calvo
May 4, 2010
Dad, your "Sports Car" here. Just wanted to say how much I will miss your voice and your wise words. I do feel your presence and as always it gives me strength. I love you dearly, Julie
Ellie Speed
May 4, 2010
Like you Ciocia Jayne, Joe always remembered my birthday. I will miss his call and the sound of his warm, loving voice. "Hey, Jellie Bellie Ellie, Happy Birthday !" He was a man of many talents and chose to use them all. We would honor ourselves by following his lead.
Mike Dwyer
May 4, 2010
Anne, Janice, Jane and Children, I am sadly reminded that even heroes are taken from us too soon. I have such fond remembrances of growing up with Joe and Janice and following his career with great interest. My deepest sympathy and prayers are with you.
Todd Rojcewicz
May 4, 2010
We will remember this great Amercian Patriot warmly. Bless His Mother , Jayne Kosciusko and Sister , Janice Narel . God will only give you what you can handle.
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