Mitchell Stanley Koziana

Born during the Depression in the heart of the Chicago manufacturing district to his Polish immigrant parents, Antoni Koziana and Emilia Swiderska in January of 1928, Mitchell was the youngest but one of nine. He decided to leave school to join the US Merchant Marine with the dream to serve his country and provide a better life for himself and his family. At 18, with the continued impact of World War II, Mitchell

joined the Army, deploying to Japan. He spoke often and fondly of his role as mess sergeant- practiced in stretching his resources to make sure his soldiers never went hungry. In 1948, he was honorably discharged and received his WWII Victory Medal and Army of Occupation Medal. While stationed at Fort Knox, he met and married Edith Liuzzi of Louisville. In December of that year, they welcomed their son, Donald. They settled in Chicago where they raised their son for the remainder of their

marriage.

In 1973, Mitchell met Margaret Keane who was the love of his life. They enjoyed life together- dancing, traveling, attending and throwing parties until her passing in 2015. The constant joy and focus in his life was always his commitment to family. He was a doting Pappaw to his three granddaughters- Lori, Kristie and Donna. With them, he shared his love of dancing, dressing up and enjoying life which they cherish.

He was also very close to his seven great grandchildren- Isaac, Ari, Mateo, Leonardo, Emiliano, Remington, and Wyatt- who loved when Grandpa came to play. For 95 years Mitchell lived well and died peacefully on July 28th surrounded by love. He was one of a kind- his infectious smile, the twinkle in his blue eyes, his sense of humor and flirtatious nature, and his coffee shop antics (no sugar packet or creamer was safe).He will be remembered and missed. His legacy and light will live on in everyone that ever got the chance to meet ‘Grandpa’.

His Funeral Service will be held at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in Elwood, IL at 1:30 pm followed by a memorial lunch. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Bob Woodruff Foundation.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.blakelamboaklawn.com for the Koziana family.