Michael A. Kozer

10/12/2018 ~ 10 years since you have been gone from our lives. always love. never forgotten.

10/12/2016 ~ 8 yrs ~

Oct 12, 2016 ~ Michael left us 8 years ago today. it is a beautiful autumn day ~ sun shining, leaves changing colors, perfect temps....I think about him every day and hope he found the peace he was seeking. The kids and I have come a long way since that heart wrenching day. We couldn't have done it without the continued support of family and friends. For that, I am forever grateful. I hope he is looking down on us and is proud of who we have become and of our accomplishments. This time of year always causes me to reflect, ponder, and grieve. With every passing year, it gets less severe, but the feelings of sadness are still present. Today reminds me of the words my mother spoke at the grave site on the one year anniversary:

"We are all poets and when we are no longer living, our poetry lives on, leaving a trail of our footprints on the souls of those we leave behind.

Michael, the poet, left behind his greatest masterpiece, his daughter, Alyssa. Her father forever a part of her. A part that will be passed on to her children, their children, and down through future generations. The song of the poet lives on.

Daniel, look deep inside and reach out to the poem Michael left to you. The values, morals, a shared enjoyment of skiing and attending sporting events together. As you grow older, you will realize what I mean.

And the girl he married, now the woman who stands here today in loss, grief and sorrow. But the poetry of Michael that lies deep within her has changed her forever. She will never forget but the memories will soften, blur into a lovely mellow aura of the past.

We are gathered here today not to say "good-bye", but "bon voyage, Michael" to the journey your soul and poetry has taken you.

Each of us has a line or two of your poem in our memories. A moment in time when at some instance you touched our souls.

God be with you, Michael. May the Lord bless you and keep you, may his face shine on you and give you peace."

Michael ~ you will always be loved, and never forgotten.
~Holly

Thank you to everyone who remembered the 5 yr anniversary date of Michael's passing on October 12th. It means a lot to me and the kids that he remains in your memories and thoughts. It has been a long 5 years and there is not a day that goes by when I don't think of him or miss him terribly. RIP Michael.

Thank you to everyone who remembered the 5 year anniversary date of Michael's passing on October 12. It means so much to me and the kids to know that friends and family keep him in their memories and thoughts. It has been a long 5 years and not a day goes by that I don't think of him and miss him terribly.

Dear Holly, Alyssa and Dan,

Another October has gone by. Another year without Michael here on earth. I know it is still hard in a lot of ways and it still seems so unfair. But try to remember, he is always close in your hearts. His spirit is still with you.

In loving memory,
Judy

My sweet sister,

Some days it seems like a lifetime ago, yet other days it seems like just yesterday that Michael left a void in our lives. Over the years you have shown incredible strength, courage and grace to carry on and to provide a loving and stable home for Danny and Ayssa. I look at you today with so much love and admiration.

Never forgotten and forever in our hearts and prayers.

Your sister, Judy

I light this candle today in memory of my dear husband, Michael, who left us too soon three years ago today. A day does not go by without thinking of him, missing him, wishing I would have had just one more day with him. My heart is filled with pain, sadness and lonliness with the absence of him in my life. Rest in Peace, my sweet Michael. ~Always Loved, Never Forgotten~

Michael, I light this candle in your memory. We miss you.

Dear Holly, I am thinking and praying for you , Alyssa and Daniel. It has been 2 years since Michael left your family. Remember - you are a very strong woman ! Love ya, Krissy

It has been two years ago today. Thinking about you, loving you, missing you every single moment.~Always loved. Never forgotten.~

Happy Father's Day! We visited you at the cemetery. The sun was shining and it was a beautiful day. I know you were golfing up in heaven. xoxo H

It was our 12 year anniversary on March 20th. I visited you that beautiful spring day and the sun was shining down on you. I miss you so much and it breaks my heart to know that you aren't with us anymore.

We went to the St. Patrick's Day parade last Saturday. The first time since you've been gone. We had such fun times there with the Balsamicos over the years. It was hard to go this year without you, but I did it so that I can carry on our family traditions in honor of you. Love Forever. Holly

Happy Valentine' Day to my Husband. How I so miss the romantic cards and the red roses you always gave to me on this day. Missing you........Holly

Dad,
It is close to Valentine's Day and I would like to just remind you how much I love ya! I am thinking of you this Holiday.

Love, Your Daughter,
Alyssa <3

Michael, Today you would have been 50 years old. Happy 50th Birthday and I am thinking of you and holding you close to my heart today and always. Love, Holly

My Dear Michael,
You were constantly on my mind on Monday, November 30, as buck season began. I will always cherish the memories of this time of year.....of you preparing your hunting gear the night before, of me packing your turkey sandwiches (with turkey left over from Thanksgiving) to put in your camo back pack, having to prepare and set the timer on the coffee machine so you had hot coffee to put in your thermos at 4 AM (because you didn't like to wake me in the morning to make coffee),of you texting me from your tree stand later that morning to say that you caught a glimpse of "Bucky" (as we liked to call them!) but he was too far away, etc. And best of all, the excitement when you actually got one! I think fondly of your close friends who shared this hobby and passion with you...Jim, Paul....and even your father, who started hunting with you when you were only 12 or so. Love you.

DEAR HOLLY, DAN, AND ALYSSA,

IT HAS BEEN ONE YEAR SINCE YOU LOST YOUR BELOVED HUSBAND AND FATHER. MY HEART GOES OUT TO ALL OF YOU AS I AM SURE YOU CONTINUE TO GRIEVE HIS LOSS. I AM JUST FINDING OUT ABOUT YOUR LOSS NOW. I WORKED WITH MICHAEL AT PPCP YEARS AGO. PLEASE KNOW I WILL CONTINUE TO PRAY FOR YOU.

I would like to share some words my dear Mother, Dolores Frank, read to us at the cemetary on the one year passing of my wonderful husband, Michael:

We are all poets and when we are no longer living, our poetry lives on, leaving a trail of our footprints on the souls of those we leave behind.

Michael, the poet, left behind his greatest masterpiece, his daughter, Alyssa. Her father forever a part of her. A part that will be passed on to her children, their children, and down through future generations. The song of the poet lives on.

Daniel, look deep inside and reach out to the poem Michael left to you. The values, morals, a shared enjoyment of skiing and attending sporting events together. As you grow older, you will realize what I mean.

And the girl he married, now the woman who stands here today in loss, grief and sorrow. But the poetry of Michael that lies deep within her has changed her forever. She will never forget but the memories will soften, blur into a lovely mellow aura of the past.

We are gathered here today not to say "good-bye", but "bon voyage, Michael" to the journey your soul and poetry has taken you.

Each of us has a line or two of your poem in our memories. A moment in time when at some instance you touched our souls.

God be with you, Michael. May the Lord bless you and keep you, may his face shine on you and give you peace.

Holly, Alyssa and Danny,

We think of you all and Michael so often that it is hard to imagine that one full year has passed.
Our memories are so vivid and precious as I know you will keep those memories alive forever.
Holly- Your love for your husband and family runs so deep that I can see it in your face every time we are together!!!
You are one special lady, an inspiration as so many have said already.
I'm sure that is hard to see right now, but know that your strength is in your beauty of Michael's memory.

always-
your friend in Boston

I have you in my heart and on my mind Holly.

Lizzy Galloway

My dear Holly, my thoughts are with you and the kids today sister. Don't do too much, just breathe and take one minute at a time. Do talk with Michael today...he will hear you. Loving you Holly my dear friend ~ Sissy

Hello Holly and Danny and Alyssa:

I can't believe an entire year has gone by already. You have survived all of the "firsts" which I remember being so incredibly difficult. It sounds like you have been quite strong for your children. Just remember to take care of yourself as well.

I continue to pray for you and the kids to have strength to face each day. Please consider going to the Highmark Caring Place to help all of you through this next year. They were so helpful to me and my daughter, and there is a new one in Warrendale. www.highmarkcaringplace.com

Liz

My Dearest Michael,

Today marks one year since you left us so tragically and so suddenly. I miss you more today than yesterday. As we stood at your grave yesterday, I felt such deep longing for you to be with me once again, to continue living the life we once shared together. They say "time heals all wounds", but that certainly isn't the case for me. Not right now.

I desperately hold on to all of the countless, treasured memories I have shared with you over all of the years we had together. Stare at all of the photos of you, remembering such great times. Always a smile on your face.

The wonderful and continued support and love received by my family and our friends have carried me and the kids through this first year and it is truly a reflection of how they all must have felt about you. I will never be able to recipricate to them what they have given to me and the kids this past year. Words will never adequately thank them.

Missing you, loving you, honoring you,remembering you.........Forever.
Love you, Holly

Dear Holly, Alyssa and Danny,

Today is the 1 year anniversary of Michael's passing away. I am sure it has been a difficult year. Holly, I have not seen you since the funeral, but please know that I pray for your family everyday.

Love you!

Krissy Hayes

Holly, Alyssa, and Danny...
The words escape me when I think of how your hearts must be aching...
I turn to the only place I know to go to in times of deep pain and sorrow, bowing my head in deep prayer for your healing...for peace to fall upon you...I thank God for His protection over you during this past year, and for future blessings yet to come..He will carry you through when your strength is exhausted...

My favorite memory of Michael is dancing with the two of you at Futule's Harmar House for Hartwood's Spring Fling....he kept all of us laughing and dancing the entire night!
I'll never forget that....

Judy

Holly,
Can hardly believe it's been 1 year already. The strength and perseverence you have demonstrated through this trying time is truly inspirational to us all. Michael would be so proud of you. Please know that you are still on our thoughts and prayers. Please take care....

The Troutman's

Holly,
I see you almost everyday and marvel that woman you are. I have shared many laughs with you as well as many tears. This year has been a rough one for you and the kids and we have seen it. Michael would be proud at the strong, independent woman you are and what you have done to make sure your family pulls through this time of sorrow. I look at you and can feel the grieve and sorrow you carry on your shoulders.
I am so proud of you and you should be proud of yourself for getting through the first year. I think of you always even if you are just steps away from my door. love you always....

Dear Daddy,
It has been one year. I can't believe it. I miss you so much and I just still don't understand. But, what you did and why you did it, I hope it made you happy. I still grieve in my heart because there is a missing piece I just can't seem to fill. I love you on this 1 year anniversary of your death.
XOXO Alyssa

Holly,
I am thinking about you and the kids and praying for Michael on this sorrowful day. I am proud of you and admire your strenghth.I have you in my heart.
Susan

Holly, You and I have spoken several times through the hardest year of your life about Michael. I feel your pain and know your heartache in a different way. Time will take you through the rest of your life...it all takes time. Feeling your pain today, makes it unimaginable to think your heart will find peace someday...but being who you are today after his tragic death, will aid in the beginning of a mew life for you and your kids. It is all different than you would have ever imagined, but GOD gives us the strength to carry on, somehow, someway. We love you all and pray each day for comfort to you.

Dear Michael:

On this upcoming one year anniversary of your sudden passing, you would be so proud of your family. Your memory lives on through them, especially your bride. She takes it one step at a time, and I'm certain that inside she is aching with sorrow for your absence. We chat about you as if you are still here, we tell funny stories, it makes us smile to think about you! Holly, I admire you for your strength. I always say I don't know how you do it. You are the rock. Love and Friendship, Feef xo

Holly -

I can't even imagine how you are feeling coming upon the 1 year anniversary of Michael's death. I do know, however, how proud you should be of yourself for how much you have accomplished in this year. You amaze me every day! Unfortunately, we can't change the past, but the future is all yours and I hope and pray that you and Alyssa and Danny find peace and happiness and success! I continue to pray that Michael is at peace.

Love you!

This past Sunday was Father's Day (June 21)and I want you to know how much you were missed that day. It was so very difficult visiting you at the cemetary with Alyssa. She still doesn't understand why she doesn't have her Daddy anymore. We love you and miss you so much.

Dear Michael, I can't believe you have been gone over 6 months. I miss you terribly and long for one more hug, one more minute, once more chance to hear your voice. I felt you right by my side last night at the annual Middle Road Spring Drawing. I joked with everyone that our number always got pulled early, but not last night. You got me to final 5 and as I sat at that table, you were in my heart and with me the entire time. I didn't win, but did leave with a small prize which I split between the kids. Missing and Loving You.

Dear Mom and Dad,
Happy 11th ANNIVERSARY. I know this is very hard for you mom, but me and Dan love you very much and we will... step by step make it through these tough times. I luv you!!

Dear Michael,
Our wedding anniversary is today marking 11 years we would have celebrated together as husband and wife. Not a minute or second goes by without you in my thoughts, in my heart, and in my prayers. I miss you so much. You will always be loved by me and never forgotten. Love, Holly

Hey Daddy... Just checking in. I really miss you and hope you feel that your life is better in heaven. I love you sooooo much! Talk to you soon!

Luv,
Alyssa

Dearest Michael,
Happy 49th Birthday, Sweetheart. I am thinking of you today and every single day since you left. I miss you so much. Love Forever, Holly

My prayers are with you and your family. I was Mike's roomate and fraternity brother when he was at Duquesne. We had some great times together and I can still see his big smile. I am so sorry I just found out about his passing. God Bless you and your family.

Dear Holly,

My heart goes out to you and your family. Words cannot express the sorrow I feel for your loss. I know that Michael loved you, Daniel and Alyssa so very much. I am praying that you will be strengthened day by day and know that the Lord is watching over you and your children. Wishing you brighter days ahead.

Holly (and family): I was so shocked and saddened hearing about Michael's passing yesterday. Before I left Pittsburgh in the late 90's, Mike and I had many fun times together. We had many good times playing in the band, golfing and just hanging out. Hearing of this news brought back alot of fun times he and I shared. I know he always spoke highly of his family. You have my deepest sympathies.

Holly (and children/family),
I met Michael in 1991, when we both worked for Tri-State Orthopaedics, and we remained friends. Michael was friendly, smiled/laughed often, and was always willing to help with computer issues. He always spoke highly of you and your children and will be greatly missed by so many people. You have my deepest sympathy. You have been and will remain in my prayers. -Diane & Paul Marchwinski & Children

Holly, My heart is breaking for you, Daniel and Alyssa. I wish I had the words to comfort you. I am so sorry about your loss of Michael. My thoughts and prayers have been with you everyday. I am so sorry I was not able to attend the service. Take care of yourself.

Dearest Sister,
You survived that terrible, grief-stricken, initial week. You celebrated Michael's life with dignity and love. You felt as weak as a new kitten (like Snickers), yet you bravely and warmly welcomed each and every one of the multitude of friends and family coming to honor and remember Michael. I'm proud to be your sister; you demonstarted a special courage I thought not possible. Michael was a delightful part of our family, always willing to participate in our zany traditions with a ready smile. We will all miss him immensely. Hold fast to those priceless memories. Our love and deepest sympathies to you, Alyssa and Daniel.
Karen and Eddie

Holly, I just can not get you off my mind! When I saw you this past week at the funeral, I felt a part of my heart was so broken! I can only imagine your heart and soul today. When you spoke to me, I could hear in your voice the love and admiration you have for Michael. Always, always, know that we are thinking of you and the kids and will continue to pray for your healing. With all my love to you and the kids...Lisa

Holly, Danny & Alyssa,

I wish you all my deepest sympathies. I know Mike was amazing to all of you and the rest of the family. Be strong and always keep the happy memories with you.

Dear Holly and children,

Although I only knew Mike for a short period of time at Reading, we enjoyed many of the same things and we started an instant friendship.

Mike was a dedicated friend and talented colleague. I will miss him dearly.

Our thoughts and prayers are with your family.

God Bless,
John and Sheryl Berzinsky

Holly I may not always know what to say or how to make you feel better but know that I pray for you often and I will always be here for you. Dan you always have a friend in Bryan. Whatever you need anytime, We will be here. Keep the faith.We will all remember the good times. Love the Ketterer's

Holly, Danny and Alyssa,


Please accept our heartfelt sympathies for your loss. Our thoughts are with you and your family during this difficult time.
We have so many wonderful memories with you, Michael, Danny and Alyssa and will cherish those forever.
We love you all.

To the family of Michael Kozer, we were saddened to hear of Michael's death.

We met him in 2001 through UPMC /CMI affiliation and he showed professionalism
and friendliness.
We pray God's peace and comfort to his
wife, children and his entire family.

Sympathy,
Dr. & Mrs. Robert G. Edwards

I am writing to extend my deepest condolences to you and your family. I was very saddened to learn about Mike’s death. I had the honor and the pleasure to become a good friend of Mike’s and I was very sorry to hear about his death. I had the greatest respect for Mike. He and I played in a band together more than 20 years ago and we created many great memories. I remember a time when we were playing a band job and Mike forgot the lyrics to one of our best songs, "Caribbean Queen." He filled in the words with “meow, meow, meow, meow” for the entire song and everyone was rolling on the floor laughing. Mike traveled to Texas a few times to see us and was also a groomsman in my wedding. We lost touch over the years although I have thought of him often with fond memories. While I know that words are only a small gesture of support, I want you to know that his generous nature and spirit touched many people's lives as it has mine. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
With deepest sympathy,

Holly, Dan and Alyssa,
Endless hugs and listening ears await you whenever you need them.

Love Always,
The Gracas

Mike. This is Dan, the brother of Lynne and Scott Giancola. I remember you always having a smile on your face and full of life, and this is how I will always remember you. May you find peace and may God be with you. I will pray for you.

Dear Holly, Alyssa & Danny,

We just heard about Mike yesterday and were so saddened. We knew Mike in New Kensington, PA when he played in the band with our children, Lynne and Scott, and also at Scott's wedding in Texas. We really enjoyed Mike's pleasant nature and were always hoping to visit with him and his family some time. Please know that you are all in our thoughts and prayers.

Holly
We are very sorry to hear about this shocking news, may God bless you and your family in this time of deep sorrow.

Alyssa, we are so sorry and sad for you and your family. You have been in our thoughts and prayers. We miss you.

Mrs. Antolic and Brooke

Holly....
We are so sorry for your loss, we will remain a phone call away for whatever you and the kids may need. We love you!!!

Dear Holly, Alyssa, and Danny
Please accept our heartfelt sympathy on Michael's passing.
Drs. John and Deborah Bucci

Holly and family,
We are so sorry for your loss. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. Ken, Thelma, Jessica & Matthew.

Holly and children, Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. God will keep you all in his hands. Jody (Belin) Siejk and family.

Holly,
Our hearts go out to you at this time and in the days ahead. Please lets us know if you, Danny or Alyssa need anything. We are here for you anytime of the day or night.

The Perka family

Holly, Alyssa & Danny,
We're all so shocked and sorry for your loss. Mike will be certainly be missed by all who knew him. Please know that we're all here for you, whatever/whenever you need anything; you are in our hearts and prayers.

Dear Holly,
I worked with Mike at Tri-State Orthopaedics and was shocked to learn of his untimely passing. May your faith and loving memories of life with Mike console you during this sudden loss. You and your children are in my prayers even though I never had the opportunity to meet you. God rest his soul.

Dear Holly, Alyssa and Danny- I cannot express how very sorry I am to hear about your loss. My brother, Scott,and I are from New Kensington, PA and went to school with Mike. We were also all in a band together for years. Mike was in Scott's wedding here in TX as well. He was a great friend and we all had many good times together. He was also a very gifted guitar player. Holly, I met you at the Four Seasons in Las Colinas, TX about 3 yrs ago and I was so happy that Mike had found such a loving wife. I could tell how proud he was of you and the children. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.

Our hearts go out to you and your family on your sudden loss of Mike. He was well liked and will be missed by so many. Always remember-- though he may not be here physically, he will always be in the hearts of many, especially your own.

Words cannot express this great loss, Holly. We will continue to pray for your continued strength and most of all we are wishing you comfort during this time of sorrow.

Holly and family,
We were so sorry to hear about Mike. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Don't hesitate to call if you need anything.
Sincere Regards,
Tina Magnotti and Joe Teti

To my awesome, and devoted dad. You were the best dad a kid could have. I will miss you forever in my heart. I love you and I hope you knew that. Hope to see you in the future up in heaven. I hope you found the peace that you were looking for. Thank you for being my father and a loving one.

Dear Holly,

Words cannot express the sadness we feel for your unfortunate loss. Michael was a very special man to many people. He will be sorely missed. Please know that we are here for you in your time of need. You are in our thoughts and prayers.

Love,

The Troutman's

Dear Holly, Dan & Alyssa,
We are so sorry to hear of your loss. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. God bless you and your family.
Megan, Mike, Mikayla & Emily Korczynski

Dear Holly, Alyssa and Danny,
We are so very sorry to hear of your loss. Words cannot express our sadness. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers.

Sincerely,
Gerard & Karina Grande

To Holly and family,
We here at Penn Family Medicine are so sad to hear of your loss. You will always be in our prayers.It was our pleasure to have met Michael even though it was for a short time. God Bless you all.

To my dear handsome husband, Michael. I will love and miss you for all of eternity. You were my partner in life and my best friend. We have been through SO much together, both good and bad. We had a great wonderful life together filled with love, laughter, good times with family and friends. I will pray for your soul and may you have found the peace you were seeking. I am so proud of who you were - how hard you worked towards your successful career, a wonderful provider for our family, a friend, a hard worker, a loving caring man, a dedicated father, a man who enjoyed many passions in life. Your golf, hunting, poker, your yellow Boxster. Your short time here on this Earth was a good one. I hope you realized how truly loved you really were. Seeing and reading all of these wonderful messages in this guest book shows just that. For all of you who sign this - THANK YOU. It means so much to me and the kids. It gives us strength to go on and face the difficult times today, tomorrow and the days to come. Michael, I won't ever say good bye to you completely. You will always be in my mind, heart and spirit. I will meet you again someday in Heaven where we will be reunited again. Love Forever, Holly, your loving wife, your "lil Boog".

Holly, Dan, and Alyssa -

We are so sorry to hear of your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. Please know that we are here for you.

Dear Holly,
So, so sorry for your loss. Know that as you press in to the Lord in this time, He will be a Rock that will not fail. You and your family are in my prayers.
Love, Alissa

Dear Holly,
We were stunned to hear the tragic news about Mike. Everyone who knows you must be heartbroken at the loss of your husband. There are no words to adequately express our sympathy for the devastation and profound loss you and the children are feeling. Please know we are thinking of you and will keep you in our prayers.

Mike will be missed on the golf course, at the poker table and in the woods (hunting) but he will never be missing from our hearts.

Our deepest condolences,

Holly, Alyssa and Danny,
Our deepest sympathy, thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this most difficult time. Please know that we are always here for you.

Holly,

Our dear neighbor and friend. You Alyssa, and Danny have our deepest sympathies and our love and support. May God give you strength and courage on this difficult road. Our hearts and prayers are with you all.

Holly,

You have been in our thoughts and prayers all week. You have our deep sympathies during this trying time. Ben and I are here if you, Alyssa or Dan need anything, anytime.

Holly, we are so sorry to hear of your loss. Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers. May you find healing and peace in your memories.