Karl Michael Kozak Sr.

Karl Michael Kozak Sr., former Lieutenant Commander in the U.S. Navy and longtime resident of San Diego, passed away peacefully at his home on January 20, 2025, at the age of 84. He was a proud American who cherished his country, as well as a devoted husband, father, brother, grandfather, and great-grandfather to his family.

Born on July 20, 1940, in Ebensburg, Pennsylvania, Karl was the son of John and Elizabeth Kozak. A man of great intellect and discipline, he graduated with honors from the United States Naval Academy in 1963 with a degree in engineering. That same year he married the love of his life, Marirose Bonanno, a graduate of Seton Hill Women’s College, from Barnesboro, Pennsylvania. Their marriage was a partnership that last-ed 59 years.

Karl served with distinction as a naval submariner aboard the USS Sam Rayburn (“Mr. Sam”) and the USS Sculpin (attack submarine) under the command of future Chief of Naval Operations, Admiral Frank Kelso. After leaving the Navy in 1970, he pursued a successful career as an engineer and businessman, working for several prominent firms until his celebrated retirement in 2018.

Throughout his professional life, Karl and Marirose lived in nine different states before settling in Thou-sand Oaks, California, in 1977. Karl had 3 sons named Michael, Karl Jr, and Scott. During this time, he earned an MBA from California Lutheran University and held leadership positions at Rockwell International and later, Clark-Reliance Industries. Whenever vacation time arrived, he frequently took the family on weeklong camping, hiking, and skiing trips whenever possible.

In 2007, Karl and Marirose relocated to San Diego to be closer to their grandchildren and, ultimately, to enjoy their well-earned retirement together. A true adventurer, Karl’s love for travel took him and Marirose across 54 countries including Asia, Egypt, Europe and the Balkans. He was an ardent supporter of the U.S. military, an unwavering fan of the Army-Navy football game (always rooting for the Midshipmen), and a man who lived with honor, discipline, and pride in his service.

Karl suffered a profound emotional loss in June of 2023 when Marirose suddenly and unexpectedly passed away. He visited her grave site frequently, finding solace in prayer and reflection. In early 2024, Karl was diagnosed with a terminal illness. A courageous fighter to the very end, he faced his final battle with strength and dignity, surrounded by the love of his family. When God finally called upon him, his passing was quiet and peaceful. Now, he is reunited in heaven with his beloved Marirose, together once more.

Karl is survived by his sister, Carole Murphy of Pittsburgh, PA; his sons, Dr. Michael Lydic, Karl Kozak Jr., and Dr. Scott Kozak; daughters-in-law Robin Laatz and Sandy Lydic; and his extended family, including Joan & Victor Ballash (sister and brother-in-law) and Robert & Doreen Laatz (In-laws). He was a proud grandfather of 6 grandchildren: Brianna, Brooklyn, Quinn, Carter, Maria Christina, and Michael Jr.; and a great-grandfather to Cade Cruz. Nieces/Nephews include: Sheila & Dan Burkholder, Michael Woods, Flynn & Da-na Murphy, Sally, Vicky, Brian, and Sandy.

CELEBRATION of LIFE MASS: Saturday, March 8th @ 11am, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Cathedral, 1535 Third Avenue, downtown San Diego. A reception will follow the mass in the parish auditorium.

INURNMENT: To be held at the Miramar National Cemetery in San Diego, Columbarium. TBD

IN LIEU OF FLOWERS: Donations may be made to the USS Midway Foundation.

https://www.midway.org/get-involved/uss-midway-foundation