John J. Kolodzey, 68, passed away peacefully on July 26, 2026 after a long illness. John was born, August 29, 1957 to the late Marcellous and Madlyn Kolodzey. John was a lifelong Victorian, where he attended Victoria High School and later Texas A&M University. He was a salesman for Gulf Coast Paper, Century Paper and National Sanitary Supply. John loved meeting people and probably was one of very few in the sales industry that wasn’t intimidated by making what they say in the business, “cold calls”. In fact, he remained close friends with some of his account customers up until his death.
An avid hunter, John loved the outdoors. From an early age under his Dad’s guidance, he became an avid hunter, and he would say himself an excellent marksman. He loved both hunting and fishing with his friends and family members. Each year he always looked forward to opening day of deer and dove season. And then, making some sort of tasty game dish from his successful efforts, including dry sausage from deer meat which of course could only be eaten with French’s yellow mustard and hard cheddar cheese. He was also known for making a mean pot of chili and great with anything you could grill.
John always enjoyed a good round of golf, but not so much of course if he lost. He loved hitting the links with his son, John Richard, regardless of how competitive or heated it would get between them. Both always looked forward to the Annual Harry the Hat Golf Tournament organized by his late, longtime friend Mark Keag, then gathering with friends after at the Lee family residence.
John is survived by his wife, Patricia Mulligan Kolodzey; their son, John Richard Kolodzey, (wife Mallory) and two grandsons, Braylen and Callen; sisters, Cathy Reinermann (husband Paul), Lacy Ruwwe (husband John) brother-in-law, Gary Worsham (wife Melita); nephews John Ruwwe III, Michael Ruwwe, David Ruwwe, and Troy Mulligan; nieces, Claire Ruwwe, Wendy Worsham and Jona Mulligan.
He is preceded in death by his parents and sister, Marcy Worsham (late wife of Gary Worsham)
A special thanks to Michael and Sharon Wagner, Bill and Libby Kyle and Butch and Deb Hartman and longtime physician, Dr. Mehran Nezhad; and a special recognition of family and longtime friends for their support during John’s journey to his next chapter..
A Celebration of John’s Life will be held at the family ranch at a later date in the Fall.
Memorial donations may be made to Hospice of South Texas in loving memory of John.
