James KOZIAK

1941 - 2024

It is with deep sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Jim, at the age of 83, on September 16, 2024, at The Kingsway Venvi in Toronto. Jim was a beloved friend to many, especially to his late wife, Jean (nee Bartholomew). Their bond spanned nearly 60 years, beginning at UBC, where they shared residence while studying in different faculties – Jim in Engineering and Jean in Arts/Social Work. A devoted father, Jim leaves behind two daughters, Lynn Knocker (husband, Paul) of Northern Ireland and Jill Douglas of Maple Ridge, British Columbia. He was a proud grandfather to eight grandchildren: Christopher, Daniel, Matthew, Joshua, Chloe, Orion, Griffin, and Keira. Jim is also survived by his sister, Shirley Daniels of California; his nieces and nephews, Margaret, Mary Ann, David, and Rick; and many members of the Hucal Family in Alberta. Born in Wetaskiwin, Alberta, in 1941, Jim's upbringing involved frequent relocations across small towns in Alberta. He attended Queen Elizabeth High School in Calgary before moving in with his father, a CPR Section Foreman, which led to many home changes. After graduating high school, Jim became an Officer Cadet at Royal Roads in Victoria, British Columbia, where he excelled in boxing and athletics. He later attended the University of British Columbia, earning an MSc in Metallurgical Engineering, followed by an MBA at the University of Western Ontario. Jim began his career at Stelco in Hamilton, Ontario, and later became CEO of King Truck Engineering and Western Star Trucks, before venturing into the financial industry as an entrepreneur with a MACK truck dealership as well as consulting for small and mid-sized industrial businesses. Jim's zest for life extended to his grandchildren, whom he inspired with adventurous "world-class wilderness missions," water fights, and nature walks. His hobbies included gardening, reading, cooking, bird watching, golfing, and enjoying live theatre. He contributed actively at Humber Valley United Church, enhancing the church's audio-visual system and volunteering his time. His altruistic spirit also led him to Haiti, where he helped construct a school and implement a daily meal programme for malnourished children. We extend heartfelt gratitude to the staff at The Kingsway Retirement Home for the exceptional care Jim received in his final days. They were supported by PSWs from Care Partners and Private Carers. Their dedication significantly enriched his later years. Visitation will be held on Monday, September 23rd, at Turner & Porter Yorke Chapel (2357 Bloor Street West, Toronto, M6S 1P4) from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. A Celebration of Jim's Life will take place on Tuesday, September 24th, at 4:00 p.m. at Humber Valley United Church (76 Anglesey Blvd, Toronto, M9A 3C1), followed by a reception. The service will be livestreamed for those unable to attend. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Jim's memory to the Humber Valley United Church Foundation (www.hvuc.ca) or St. Joseph's Health Centre (www.supportstjoes.ca).