Donald Gozzard

Donald Mark Gozzard, 65, passed away surrounded by family at the Kobacker House on Thursday, January 5, 2023, in Columbus, Ohio. He was born February 19, 1957, the oldest of four children, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He had a close-knit extended family and often spoke of the fun family gatherings. Outside of school he enjoyed playing all sports and was active in the Presbyterian Church. He was a graduate of Clarion State University, where he met his wife, Denise. He worked for 26 plus years at JCPenney earning the Chairman Award and later retired from the retail industry in 2017.

Don married Denise in 1981, and they welcomed three children. His positive outlook and faith were a driving force in his life and his family was his real love. He enjoyed adventures with his family, memorable trips, camping, “The Farm” and yearly vacations to the ocean with “the beach crew”. His passion for running led him to complete a dozen marathons and his running fever carried on with his daughters, Ashley and Cara. Don and his son, Ryan, shared a love for all sports, especially the Buckeyes and Blue Jackets. Don enjoyed biking, reading, traveling, and hiking in the Hocking Hills area, with Denise. Additionally, he was a member of the Columbus African Violet Society and took pride in tending to his violet collection.

He was preceded in death by his father, Donald W. Gozzard. Don is survived by his loving wife of 41 years, Denise Gozzard; children, Ashley (Chad Marshall) Gozzard, Cara (Brian Guerin) Gozzard, and Ryan Gozzard; grandchildren, Lilly, Finn, Hudson, and Tessa; mother, Lorraine Gozzard; siblings, Patti (Scott) Strope, Dave (Candy) Gozzard, and Dan (Jodi) Gozzard; loyal dog, Cam; and many other relatives and friends.

Visitation will be from 4-8 p.m. on Friday, January 13, 2023, at Schoedinger of Grove City, 4242 Hoover Road, (Hoover Road at Kingston Avenue). The Service will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, January 14, 2023. In accordance with Don’s wishes, he will be cremated. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to either of the following:

The Ohio State University Melanoma Research Fund by visiting the following link: https://www.giveto.osu.edu/makeagift/details/314782

The Kobacker House by visiting the following link and using the dropdown menu to choose Kobacker House: https://foundation.ohiohealth.com/programs/hospice-giving

Visit www.schoedinger.com to share a special memory or extend condolences.