Joseph James Kohut

I was so sorry to read the sad news about Joe. We were colleagues at the PSU Library for many years. Joe was always respected for his knowledge and quick wit. He had many friends among the PSU Librarians and staff, and all share good memories of working with him. The world was a better place with him in it, and my sympathies go out to all his family and friends.

I met Joe three years ago while leading a backpack to the Three Sisters Wilderness and he quickly became a good hiking friend. Whenever we hiked, I got to know a bit more about him; on every trip his energy, ready smile, and good humor were inspiring.

I was out of town the day of his memorial and missing this chance to celebrate his life makes it even harder to believe that he is really gone. Are there plans for some kind of memorial, maybe a plaque on a bench in Portland’s Forest...

Anton, Lara, Lucy, Gerry and all the family - Jean and I were very saddened to hear of Joe's untimely passing R.I.P. He was a kind, fun man with a ready smile and a zest for life .... especially the Tango! We enjoyed his company when he over-nighted occasionally with us in Blackrock and exchanged colourful stories. One 'special' dream he shared with us came true! While still in awe of his beautiful grand-daughter Alanna - he confided - with a twinkle in his eye! - that he would love a...

Anton, I'm sorry for your loss. I remember your father sharing his excitement of his Honda reaching 100K miles. He was very amicable to Mary and I when she moved to Portland. I'm glad he was able to do something he truly enjoyed before passing on.

I was a friend of Anton's during college and, when I first moved to Portland, I stayed with Anton and Joe until I found a place of my own. Joe was such a nice person, and I was so, so sorry to hear about the accident. Anton, my thoughts are with you and your family.

Ann and my memories of Joe will be with us to the end. He was engaging and endearing and I know we will be retelling our stories of Joe on the trail for a long time. A little light has gone out of all our lives - but the stories and memories continue to live. Tony - so sorry to have missed you last night. My voice was giving out but we were so pleased to finally meet your lovely wife.

As a researcher and colleague I always greatly appreciated Joe as a valued resource at the PSU science library. He also was a wonderful person to converse with. I missed him after his retirement.

Anton, As Norma and I said to you after the
celebration of Joe's life - in words and with music and dance - he was an endearing man
and contact with him was to be blessed with
his joy and zest for living. Bob Weiss (Fire Mission!) and Norma Leszt

We were neighbors of Joe and Misha and always enjoyed his love of life and of his family ... and his unmistakeable great laugh. We already miss Joe, but we know that someday we'll meet again. Our thoughts & prayers will be with Joe's son Anton and his wife Lara, and the rest of Joe's loving family.