Robert Lawrence "Rob" Kozak

Robert Lawrence "Bob" Kozak, known as "Rob" to his family and "Bob" to his friends, passed away peacefully on October 28, 2025. Born on August 30, 1959, in Cleveland, Ohio, Bob lived a life full of love, laughter, loyalty, and sports.

A lifelong baseball fan, Bob's love for the game ran deep. He subscribed to the major league baseball streaming service and watched from the first game opening pitch to the final the World Series out every year. He even worked at the Cleveland Indians stadium. He was also an avid supporter of women's sports, particularly basketball. The Indianapolis Fever was his favorite team, and he went to many home games.

Bob was also extremely interested in wordplay, crossword puzzles, and trivia. He served as an editor for his on-line acquaintances, a job that reflected his sharp mind and attention to detail. Outside of work, he enjoyed quiet walks, good seafood, and time with his beloved dog, Ishy. Each evening you could count on him watching Jeopardy! and getting most of the answers right. Being a contestant on the PBS Puzzle Hour with Will Schortz, and acing all the questions, was one of the highlights of his life.

But Bob's greatest joy was his life partner, Janice Kritchevsky of Lafayette. Together they shared countless sporting events, dinners at Teay's River and other local restaurants, and a deep, unwavering love.

Bob also adored Janice's children-Ellen Needham (Christopher) of Reno, Nevada; Ann Sojka (Thomas) of Portsmouth, Ohio; and Phillip Sojka (Abigail) of Baltimore, Maryland-as well as their children, Miriam, Jasper, Florence, Eloise, and John. He loved hearing Janice relate stories of her grandchildren's antics and accomplishments.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Lawrence Ralph Kozak and Irene Miriam Kozak, and is survived by his siblings Kathryn Kozak of Richmond, VA; Michael Kozak of Nashville, TN; Mark Kozak of Cleveland, OH; and his aunt Sharon Kozak of Washington, D.C.

Bob will be remembered for his wit, warmth, and the loyalty he showed to those he loved. Whether cheering on his teams, humming along to Gordon Lightfoot, or enjoying a delicious meal with Janice, Bob lived life fully-and those who knew him will miss him deeply.