Eugene Andrew Kocmoud

October 3, 1944 – April 16, 2025

Eugene Andrew “Gene” Kocmoud, age 80, of Copperas Cove, Texas, passed away suddenly on Wednesday, April 16, 2025, after enjoying a wonderful lunch with one of his best friends, Fred Doak. Though his passing was unexpected, it followed a moment of joy — just as he lived his life: surrounded by good company, laughter, and warmth.

Born on October 3, 1944, in Chicago, Illinois, Gene was the beloved son of Raymond Roman Kocmoud and Lucille Cecelia Kocmoud (Piwowarski). From an early age, Gene showed a remarkable knack for mechanics and problem-solving, talents that would carry him through a dynamic and impactful life. He graduated from J. Sterling Morton High School in Cicero, Illinois, in 1962 and later earned an Associate Degree in General Studies from Central Texas College in 1986.

In October 1966, Gene met the love of his life, Mary Ann Schmitz, on a blind date to the movies. The spark that began that evening grew into a beautiful marriage, and on April 1, 1967, they were united in holy matrimony at St. Peter's Catholic Church in Skokie, Illinois. Together they built a life filled with love, faith, and family.

Gene answered the call to serve his country in 1965, embarking on a distinguished 20-year military career. He served with honor in Minnesota, Alabama, Texas, and Massachusetts, and completed two tours each in South Korea and West Germany before retiring in 1985 as a Chief Warrant Officer 4 (CW4). Following his military service, Gene continued his work in national defense as an electronics technician with GTE and General Dynamics. As a contractor, he served proudly in Operation Desert Shield and Desert Storm, earning a Superior Performance Award in recognition of his excellence. Gene was also honored to receive the Liberation of Kuwait Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, and Army Commendation Medal. In retirement, Gene ventured into business as a co-owner of Kwik Kar of Harker Heights.

Known as the hometown handyman everyone went to for help, Gene had a natural gift for fixing anything mechanical or electrical. Over his lifetime, he owned, fixed up, and sold over 140 vehicles — many of which he lovingly repaired, loaned, or donated to those in need. Perusing auto salvage yards was his favorite pastime. He was always ready with a toolbox in hand, a clever solution to a stubborn problem, and a humorous story (most of which were true) to share along the way.

A man of deep faith, Gene was an active member of Holy Family Catholic Church in Copperas Cove, where he served faithfully as an usher. He was also a 3rd Degree Knight with the Knights of Columbus Council #6658, and gave generously of his time to the Rotary Club of Harker Heights (where he served as Treasurer), the Pink Warrior Angels, and as a Unit Commissioner with Cub Scout Pack 221.

Gene was not only a patriot and servant but also a loving family man who found his greatest joy in his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. His kindness, humor, and unwavering support continued his wife’s legacy in touching the lives of everyone he met — especially those facing hardship, whom he helped by transporting to doctor appointments, fetching groceries, and running errands without hesitation.

He is survived by his brother, Carl (Cheryl) Kocmoud of Westmont, IL; his children, David (Gabriela) Kocmoud and Christopher (Kimberly) Kocmoud of College Station, TX, and Kimberly (Brian †) Lixey of Hudson Oaks, TX; his 16 grandchildren — Anna, Patrick, Danny, Alan, Nathan, Matthew, Jonathan, Stephen, Andrew, Josiah, Mary Joy, Caleb, Christiana, Kyle, Faith, and Ryan — and 10 great-grandchildren who will carry forward his love and legacy.

He is reunited in heaven with his beloved wife Mary Ann; his sister Geraldine “Geri” Pospisil; and his son-in-law, Brian Lixey.

A Visitation will be held on Wednesday, April 30, 2025, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Crawford-Bowers Funeral Home located at 211 W AVE B in Copperas Cove, TX. 76522 with a Rosary beginning at 6 p.m at Crawford-Bowers Funeral Home. A Mass of Christian Burial at Holy Family Catholic Church located at 1101 Georgetown Rd. Copperas Cove, TX. will follow on Thursday, May 1, 2025, at 11 a.m. a Graveside Service with Military Honors will take place at 1 p.m. at the Central Texas State Veterans Cemetery located at 11463 TX-195, Killeen, TX 76522.

Gene’s legacy of service, faith, and love will live on in the countless lives he touched. He will be remembered for sharing his gifts and talents in service to others, his deep patriotism, and his unwavering devotion to his family. In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to honor Gene’s memory by performing a kind deed for someone in need — a gesture he would have surely appreciated.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.”

(Matthew 25:23)