Reverend Deacon Michael Kozar

1929 - 2016

Reverend Deacon Michael Kozar

Reverend Deacon Michael Kozar a resident of Clarks Summit Senior Living, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Sunday, February 28th. His wife of 49 yrs, the former Evelyn Evanish, preceded him in death in 2008.

Born in Dickson City, Pa in 1929, to Elias and Anna Kozar, Michael graduated From Dickson City High School. He was a decorated Korean War veteran. After his military service, Michael attended Keystone College and then Penn State University. Mike was the proud recipient of an electrical engineering degree from Penn State University, earning membership in the Phi Beta Kappa Honorary Society. He began a 32 year career at IBM that saw him awarded two patents and several management promotions. After retirement from IBM in Poughkeepsie, NY, he entered the Orthodox Seminary and was ordained a deacon in 1992. He returned to his Northeast Pa roots, and for over 20 years he faithfully served parishes in Northeast Pa and Hollywood, FL. He was also instrumental in supporting his sons' investment in Pine Hills CC, working tirelessly for many years. He enjoyed spending his winters in Delray Beach, FL with many friends from the Scranton area. He was a member of the Elks Lodge in Wappingers Falls, NY and Boynton Beach, FL.

Michael was an eternal optimist. As with so many from the greatest generation, he never complained, instead relying on his faith to help him accept life as it came to him and welcoming the future.

For all of his accomplishments, nothing came close to his love of family. His sons, family, and grandchildren were his life. He delighted in every family gathering and proudly shared in his grandchildren's academic achievements. He generously helped his ancestors in the Ukraine and his visit there in 2005 was the trip of a lifetime. He left a legacy of generosity and kindness.

He is survived by son Scott and wife Mary, son David, and son Gregg and wife Lisette, beloved grandchildren Nicole, Will, Natalie, Nina, Claudia, and Luke, along with his surviving brother Monsignor Elias Kozar. He is also survived by sisters-in-law Ann Kozar and Patti Evanish, and many nephews and nieces. In addition to his wife he was preceded in death by sisters Mary VanDurick and Ann Evans, and brothers John and Danny.

The family would like to thank all those who cared for Michael in his final years, particularly the staff of Mountain View Care Center and Clarks Summit Senior Living. The family also appreciates the compassion and special friendship from his high school classmate Jean Ulko with whom he shared many chats and a special bond.

Funeral Divine Liturgy will be Friday at 10:00 a.m. in St. Mary's Orthodox Greek Catholic Church, 522 Main St., Dickson City, PA. to be celebrated by Reverend Father Alexei Kalyuzhny, Pastor, and concelebrated by Very Reverend Father Mark Leasure. Interment with Military Honors will follow in Abington Hills Cemetery, Clarks Summit. Friends and family may call Thursday evening from 5:00 until 8:00 p.m. at the Church. There will be a Requiem Service at 7:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, please consider donation to St. Mary's Orthodox Greek Catholic Church, 522 Main St., Dickson City, PA 18519. Arrangements by the John J. Turko & Sons Funeral Home, Dickson City.