Laura Lee Kozak

Laura Lee Kozak, aged 78, passed away on August 28, 2024, in Maywood, NJ. Born on April 21, 1946, Laura spent her childhood in the local community and graduated from Lodi High School. She furthered her education at Hackensack Hospital School of Nursing, embarking on a fulfilling career as a Registered Nurse, a role she dedicated herself to for 40+ years.

Laura proudly served in the U.S. Army, where she embraced the values of service and commitment. Her military experience was a profound part of her life and instilled in her a formidable sense of discipline and resilience.

Laura was known for her vibrant and creative spirit. She was fun, loving, kind, silly, creative, artistic, and strong, with a profound love for people and animals. Her hobbies included crossword puzzles, painting, gardening, sewing, dancing, exercising, attending Pow wows and Renaissance faires, making doll houses, and spending cherished moments with her family.

Laura is survived by her younger brother Joseph Kozak, her life partner Walter Laraway, eldest son Christopher Laraway, daughter Erica Rittwager, grandson Eric Laraway, and granddaughter Raina Lambos. She was preceded in death by her grandfather Michal Kozak, grandmother Jadwiga Kozak, father Joseph Kozak, mother Elizabeth Kozak, and son Jason Laraway.

Laura will be remembered for her warm heart, resilience, and the countless lives she touched both personally and professionally. Her legacy of kindness and creativity will live on through her family and all those who had the pleasure of knowing her.

The family will receive guests at Becker Funeral Home, 219 Kinderkamack Road, Westwood, NJ on Sunday, August 24th, 2025 from 1-5PM with a Celebration of her life, faith and military service to commence at 4:15PM.