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DENNIS IVAN KOZIER
Born: Dec 20, 1947
Date of Passing: Nov 20, 2020
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DENNIS IVAN KOZIER
December 20, 1947 - November 20, 2020
After months of isolation from his children, followed by weeks of total isolation from family, Dennis contracted COVID-19 while in the hospital for cancer assessment. Eleanor, his wife, along with their three sons, Christopher, Michael and Daniel, were the only people permitted to visit, once it had been determined death was imminent. Tragically, this permission was granted after he had become mostly unresponsive. With few precious instances of lucidity, Dennis managed to hold on to life for five more days once his family returned to his side, until he ultimately succumbed to cancer.
His funeral mass and interment at Assumption Cemetery was held on November 26, 2020. Due to public health order, five people were allowed in attendance.
Dennis is survived by his loving wife of 48 years, Eleanor (née Sniezek); his three sons, Christopher (Reesa Simmonds), Michael and Daniel; his treasured grandson and granddaughters, David, Jordan and Sarah; his brothers and sister, Kenneth (Shirley), Greg and Mary-Ann; along with numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, friends and neighbours. Dennis was predeceased by his parents, Eugene and Jessie (née Borys) Kozier.
Dennis was born in Winnipeg on December 20, 1947. He was a student of St. Edward the Confessor Catholic school and graduated from St. Paul's High School, where he was recognized for outstanding public speaking, acting and leadership. He also became the band leader, bass guitarist and singer in 'The First National Music Depression,' getting requested by the Guess Who's manager to "go to Vegas." Dennis' post-secondary education began in engineering, he took great pride in his contributions from design to completion in projects including: the Maryland Bridge piers, the roads and parking lots in Bloomberg and Crescent Drive Parks and Winnipeg's famous "Garbage Hill." He also surveyed for Ducks Unlimited.
As a steadfast believer in the value of education, Dennis would alter his course from engineering to pursue several degrees, completing a Bachelor of Arts, Education Certificate, Bachelor of Education, Master of Arts and Post Baccalaureate Certificate in Education. He valued being a student of Saint Paul's College at the University of Manitoba, where he met the love of his life Eleanor. Their wedding on July 8, 1972, started a marriage that was a lifelong source of mutual strength and joy.
Dennis first taught at St. Paul's High School and transitioned to the St. James Assiniboia School Division, where he worked until 2003 at Lincoln, Westwood and Brooklands. As a teacher, he felt blessed to play a formative role in hundreds upon hundreds of children's and teenager's lives. He was especially capable at coaching basketball and directing high school drama productions.
Although teaching may have been a passion, the most important thing to Dennis was his family. He dedicated his life to his wife and three sons, always placing their happiness and wellbeing above his own. His talents benefitted the family throughout his life, significantly improving the family home and cottage, along with converting his Chevy van into a luxury RV. He was always available to help with any project, whether it involved academics, vehicles, construction or care for other family members. He was a man of unwavering faith and made Sunday mass a priority, even if it meant an early morning hours drive with the family from the cottage. In all things, he believed that people best learned by example.
Dennis enjoyed spending time at the lake, especially with the several dogs he cherished over the decades. His other favourite destinations included Banff and Hawaii. Some of the happiest moments that life offered were attending events with family, including Jets, Blue Bomber and Grey Cup games, Paul McCartney and U2 concerts in Winnipeg and playing with his three grandchildren.
Dennis was a person of profound patience, grace and generosity. His love for his family and his faith are a foundation in our lives. His parting leaves an emptiness so unfathomably deep, particularly amidst a forced segregation from all other family and friends.
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Dec 19, 2020
Condolences & Memories (28 entries)
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I just learned of Dennis’ death in the St. Paul’s newsletter, Crusader. We were classmates in grade nine. I was quite surprised to hear of his passing. The one thing I would like to mention is that in 1961 Dennis and I won the prize for highest mark in Cathechism, he at St. Edwards and I at St Ignatius, but Dennis also won for highest mark overall in the Diocese. - Posted by: Jerry Dykman (Classmate) on: Jun 05, 2021
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Came across the list of Covid related deaths on CBC and than I saw Mr. Kozier's name, he taught me Business in grade 9 as well as Math and also my homeroom teacher in Brooklands. Many condolences. - Posted by: Samantha Smith (former grade 9 student at Brooklands) on: May 16, 2021
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I just happened upon Mr. Kozier's obituary. He taught me in Lincoln for grades 6 through 8. He was such a fun and fair teacher. Our classes could be pretty riotous and a few times a knock would come to the door asking us to be quiet. Mr. Kozier would spin some fantastic tunes for us and I will always remember him fondly. My condolences to his family. - Posted by: Debbie (Boehm) Hunter (Former Student) on: Jan 17, 2021
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I worked with Dennis in the Resource Room at Lincoln Middle School. He was a kind and patient man. When he sat with students and they had an “aha moment” and finally understood a difficult concept, it was magic. And the look on Dennis’ face was pure joy. He made a positive impact on so many students. I am so sorry for your loss. - Posted by: Margie Campbell (Former co-worker) on: Jan 05, 2021
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I was one of Mr. Kozier's student in the early '80s at Lincoln School. He was a caring and dedicated teacher and during a particularly difficult time, he showed incredible support and compassion. There were a few of us that would purposely get detention just to get more time to talk with him and I think that he knew that. His positive impact has remained with me all of these years and will continue to do so. My deepest condolences to his family, friends and all others that had the opportunity to meet him. May God give you strength during this difficult time as well as a mind full of many, many happy memories of this wonderful man. - Posted by: Lisa (Former student) on: Dec 28, 2020
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I am so sorry to hear that Mr. Kozier has passed away. I was one of his junior high students at Lincoln School. I still talk about him as one of my favorite teachers! He had a great combination of being able to teach us in memorable ways, expand our curiosity for learning, and inject humour into class, all while maintaining incredible patience with how we sometimes acted. I am so thankful for his commitment to teaching us grammar and the foundations of writing a good essay. I have relied on those skills for my lifetime, and use him as an example to my children of what a great teacher is. We also enjoyed a great session on "record study" where we studied some of the great bands of the time in a different and insightful way: The Guess Who, The Beatles and The Who as examples. I wish my sincere condolences to the family. I can see that the last weeks/days of his life were difficult for him and for you. As much as it is difficult to lose time with him on earth now, it is evident from his faith that he is in a wonderful place now, and one day you will get to see him again. - Posted by: Robert Reimer (Student) on: Dec 28, 2020
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My sincere condolences to the family of Mr. Kozier. Mr. Kozier made a difference in my life and I was thrilled when I discovered he was still teaching when my daughter became a student at Lincoln. I can not even fathom the depth of your pain, for he was truly an exceptional man that gave hope and faith to mankind. - Posted by: Brenda (Student and parent of student) on: Dec 27, 2020
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Mr. Kozier was a fantastic teacher and, from what I knew and observed as a student, a patient and warm person. His grammar analysis method is still with me and I’m still a devout word nerd thanks in large part to his enthusiastic and effective teaching. I have many fond memories of Mr. K’s classes. Though we’ve never met, I offer my best to his family. - Posted by: Marc Smith (Lincoln and Westwood student ) on: Dec 25, 2020
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Dear Eleanor, Chris, Michael and Daniel, We are so very sorry for your loss. Dennis was a great man with many successes, but always humble. His family was his priority and each family member knew they were truly loved by him. He will be missed by everyone he touched in life. - Posted by: Phil & Helen Coish (Friends) on: Dec 22, 2020
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So sorry to hear of Dennis' passing. My deepest condolences to the entire Kozier family. It was a very special time playing in the band with Dennis. Bass guitar sets the music's foundation, providing the backbone for other instruments to play around. Dennis's bass grooves made drumming in the band easy and fun! Dennis will be fondly remembered. - Posted by: Tim Proveda (Fellow band member and friend ) on: Dec 22, 2020
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What a beautiful tribute. I am so sorry for your untimely and painful loss. I had no idea how accomplished your dad was. I still remember babysitting for you boys when you were little. Sending you heartfelt prayers during these difficult times. - Posted by: Julie Hollaman (former Manitou Bay neighbour) on: Dec 22, 2020
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Mr. Kozier as I also knew him had the patience of a saint either in the classroom or in the gym coaching. He was my language arts teacher in 1978 -1980 at Lincoln and was one of my favorites and yes I remember the white Chevy van. I had no idea the education he had WOW! and who knew we listened to the same music, I was at both the U2 and Paul McCartney concerts he attended. My sincere condolences goes to the family. - Posted by: Bruce Gowanlock (Former Student) on: Dec 22, 2020
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Mr. Kozier was one of my favourite teachers in Junior High at Lincoln. He connected well with kids and loved to tell stories. He convinced a group of us to enter a film festival—we didn’t know anything about making a video/movie. Well, we did it and got an honourable mention at the award ceremony. He had a knack for getting us to try and give an effort with things. He also encouraged a group of us to skip out of class and get downtown to enjoy the Blue Bomber Grey Cup Victory Parade in I think 1984. It was the right thing to do—be part of history and celebrate, he told us.I ran into Dennis a few years back at a teachers conference/PD session that I was attending. We talked for a short while and I regret not telling him how influential he was for so many of us. He was a great man and will be missed. My condolences to the family. Take care. - Posted by: Mike Klassen (Former Student) on: Dec 21, 2020
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Mr. Kozier was one of my favorite teachers in the mid 80s! He was so full of energy! I remember his English class. “Mr. Kozier’s Crazy Crash Course in Good Grammar”. I also recall his big white van. You always knew when he was at the school! I remember many moments from being in his class! So sorry for your loss. Prayers to his family. He was just a great person and so am glad he was one of my teachers! Carolyn - Posted by: Carolyn Showalter (Former Student ) on: Dec 20, 2020
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Christopher - Your Dad and I were contemporaries at St. Paul's High School, when the campus was still downtown. My deepest condolences to you and family on your Dad's too-soon passing. I'll remember him and you in prayers. - Posted by: Bogumil (Bo) Gajda (Friend) on: Dec 20, 2020
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Eleanor, I was so sorry to hear from Bonnie that Dennis had passed away. I always liked him and remember him as a loving caring husband to you and great father to your 3 boys. Yours is one more family I know where a loved one died without the family being able to visit during the hospitalization. I'm sure this will be a very difficult Christmas but I hope you can find peace as you remember Jesus' birth. Our deepest sympathy to you and your family. - Posted by: Donna Friesen (Old friend) on: Dec 20, 2020
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My deepest condolences to Eleanor, their sons and all of his extended family. The time spent playing in the band with Dennis, his brother Kenneth, Conrad and Tim, were wonderful. I have often thought of Dennis and how creative he was in making the sound equipment for the band and how gifted he was musically. Dennis was full of energy and he was the glue that held the band together. He was like a big brother to me, those were great times we all had playing in the band. Dennis will be greatly missed. He made the world a better place. God Bless. - Posted by: Michael Davies (Fellow band member and friend ) on: Dec 20, 2020
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Our condolences to the Kozier family and friends on the passing of Dennis, As an educator, he was a man who helped form many young people. As a person he was beloved by family and friends, He lives on in his beautiful family, Please take care and know that you are in our thoughts and prayers, - Posted by: David Chaze (Friend) on: Dec 19, 2020
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I grew up next door to Dennis and have fond memories of Dennis’ perpetual smile and helpful cheerful nature. No one ever saw Dennis in a bad mood. One such fond memory is sitting with my sister at our rec room window listening to Dennis and his brother Ken practicing with his rock band in their basement! Their window lined up with ours and we felt like we were at a Beatles concert! My deepest condolences to Eleanor, Chris, Michael and Daniel, as well to Ken and Shirley, Greg and Mary-Ann. Susan Keller - Posted by: Susan Keller (Former neighbour ) on: Dec 19, 2020
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Mrs Kozier, Chris, Michael, Daniel and to your whole family, I am so so very sorry to hear of your Dad’s passing. My heart truly goes out to all of you. Thinking and praying for all of you. I have such wonderful memories of your family and your Dad from our time at the lake. I’ll never forget his kindness and his warm smile. - Posted by: Stephanie DiNella (Friend of Family) on: Dec 19, 2020
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Eleanor we are so sorry for your loss. It has been many years but the fun times we had, raising our children, and facing the challenges of life at that time will never be forgotten. Working with Dennis was a privilege. Please know our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. We know that the many wonderful memories you have and the love of your family will help you through the difficult days ahead. Lorne and Sue - Posted by: Lorne and Sue Lisik (Friend and colleague) on: Dec 19, 2020
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“Mr. Kozier”, as I knew him, was my junior high language arts teacher for grade 7 and 9 at Lincoln school back in 1975-78. I remember him teaching us “Banner in the Sky” and doing “creative writing” in his class. Mr. Kozier was a well liked and respected teacher among the students. Years later, when I was in my 30’s and 40’s, I would chat with him on Black’s Point Road where my family also has a cottage. He would always ask how I and my older brother Kevin (whom he also taught) were doing even after all those years had passed. My sincere condolences to the family. Take comfort in knowing that as a teacher, he did indeed have a positive impact on the lives of many impressionable young people and will be fondly remembered. - Posted by: April (Kuzak) Letwin (Lincoln Junior High student) on: Dec 19, 2020
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Micheal and family just wanted to say how sorry to hear about your Husband and dad he was a nice man and he also been so welcoming and friendly, remember all the good memories you mad and lots of hugs and prayers coming your way during this hard time - Posted by: Meghan (Friend of Micheal ) on: Dec 19, 2020
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I was very sad to read this even though it has been many years Mr Kozier was one of my most favorite junior high teachers. You will be missed by many, My condolences to your family. God Bless - Posted by: Lisette (Former student) on: Dec 19, 2020
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My sincerest condolences to Eleanor and family on Dennis’ passing. We had some great fun growing up in the West End, playing football with Dennis and Ken, and of course, playing in the band along with Mike and Tim. The 60’s were a great time to grow up. May the leader of the band forever rest in peace. - Posted by: Conrad MacMillan (Friend and bandmate) on: Dec 19, 2020
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I am so fortunate to be close to this family. They represent the very best values of friendship. My heart breaks for them as they suffered through this loss, and my family’s deepest sympathies and love go out to all of them. - Posted by: Romel Dhalla (Close, long-time friend of the family via son Christopher) on: Dec 19, 2020
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Our condolences to the entire family. We are saddened to hear of Dennis's passing and regret that the restrictions prevented a celebration of life that could show you how much support you have around you. We send virtual hugs. - Posted by: Heather, Murray, Eve & Pearl Genik (Friend of the Kozier's ) on: Dec 19, 2020
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Daniel, I am so sorry to learn of your father’s passing. I know from our conversations over the years how much you love your parents. My deepest sympathy to you snd your family. May God give you all peace. - Posted by: Mary Brabston (Friend of son Daniel) on: Dec 19, 2020
