Sean Michael Cox

Sean Michael Cox, 32, formerly of Hazleton, passed away March 24.

Sean was a 2007 graduate of Hazleton High School.

Sean is survived by his parents, Dr. Howard Cox and Sharon Cox; sister, Melissa Cox and her children, Jacob and Brianna; sister, Heather and husband, Joseph Shanda, and daughter, Layna; sister, Aubrey and husband, Kenny Temborski; girlfriend, Shannon Fitzpatrick; and aunts, uncles and cousins from the Bauer, Lennon and Byrne families.

He was preceded in death by several loving extended family members, including his grandmother, Mary Byrne.

Sean was a gifted athlete. He studied and earned a black belt in Shotokan karate by his teenage years with Sensei Sutrisno. He was a record-breaking swimmer for Hazleton swim team.

Sean served his country as a U.S. Marine in combat in Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan. He developed several trade skills after the Marines which he performed very well.

Sean was gregarious, kind and people were drawn to his compassion and his natural leadership. He felt things deeply. He cared for his fellow Marines and he loved kids and animals, especially horses as he spent much of his childhood life around them.

A memorial service will be held at 4 p.m. Saturday at Fierro Funeral Home, 26 W. Second St., Hazleton. Friends may call from 2 to 4 p.m. Saturday at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Sean's honor can be made to thespartaproject.org. It is a veterans organization that helps veterans with PTSD.