On July 16, 2023, Thomas Felix Kozak passed away into God’s grace at the age of 80 years old. Thomas was born in Chicago, IL and has resided in Mesa, AZ since 1990. He lived a full life, rebel to the end. Democrat to the core and would debate his values to anyone who would listen. Lover of all things racing. He raced at Raceway Park (IL) and Manzanita Speedway (AZ). Watched all things racing in person and on TV. He loved his cats and dog, Rosie. He was always listening to his oldies on the radio. He enjoyed dancing and fishing in his earlier years.
Thomas loved his family dearly. He is survived by his loving wife Kathleen Kozak (DeBord), two daughters Andrea (Dan) Koenig and Susan (Phil) McAtee and four grandchildren Stephanie, James, Josh and Hailey. Preceded in death by his parents James and Mary (Bumblauskas) Kozak and brothers James and William.
As he would always say “I’ve had more fun than a human being should be allowed to have” so until we can celebrate him together pour a glass of beer and raise a toast to a life well lived. In Tom’s words “Don’t morn me for more than fifteen minute. Get back on the train of life. There is too much fun to be had. Love ya, love ya, love ya!”
A celebration of life to be planned in the coming months.
Tom indeed lived life at 180 miles an hour. He was a man of passion, wit and laughter. Nobody dared to debate Tom unless they had their ducks in a row. Until we meet again Tom.
Many hugs and prayers headed your way. What a beautiful memorial you made for him. He will always be there in your heart and mind.
My racing partner and friend. I cherish the memories we made together.
So sorry for your loss. He sounds like a fun-loving man! You are so blessed to have had him in your life!!
Please join us on Sunday October 22, 2023 starting at noon at Crafted 1979 in Mokena Il to celebrate the life of Thomas Kozak.
Tom had few wants in life but several loves. Oldies music, racing, cats, football, pizza and beer, maybe not in that order. This makes October 22 the perfect day to celebrate his life. Bears game at noon. NASCAR at 1:00pm. Oldies in the background. Pizza on the tables. Beer flowing from the taps with part of the proceeds benefiting cats. There will be a styrofoam cup toast at the green flag drop to honor a life well lived.
In lieu of flowers and cards please consider donating to Naws in Tom’s honor.
https://nawsus.org/