Obituary of Lawrence Kozak

The Honourable Lawrence Cyril Kozak, retired judge of the Superior Court of Ontario, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, May 28, 2024 at the Sault Area Hospital in Sault Ste Marie. Loving husband of Ann. Cherished father of Sandra and stepdaughters Debbie and Annette. Proud grandfather of Aleksei, Shawn (Shea), Joshua (Taylor), Nick (Michelle), Tyler (Dana) and Jim (Andrea) and many wonderful great-grandchildren. He will be fondly remembered by his extended family.

Larry was born in Sault Ste. Marie to the late Steven and the late Sophie Kozak. He is predeceased by his brother, Fred.

He attended McFadden Public School and Sault Ste. Marie Collegiate Institute, graduating from Assumption University in 1955 with a Bachelor of Arts degree. Larry enjoyed basketball while attending school and was instrumental in leading teams to numerous wins and championships. In later years, he could be found skiing, playing tennis at RYTAC and golfing at the Sault Golf Club.

Larry started his career working for Texaco in the Ottawa - Brockville region but returned to school to follow his passion - the law. In 1967 he graduated from the University of Ottawa Law School and was called to the Ontario bar in 1969. Larry practiced law in Ottawa until 1972. From 1972-74, he was a partner in the law firm Mantello and Kozak in Sault Ste. Marie and then Kozak and DeLorenzi from 1974 to 1988. During his years as a practicing lawyer, he was designated a Queen’s Counsel. In November 1987, he was appointed a judge of the District Court to the district of Thunder Bay and retired as a Superior Court Justice in 2005. He enjoyed his retirement in Sault Ste. Marie with his family and friends.

Larry was an intellect with a quick mind and wit, who enjoyed great conversation and debate. He was a generous man who valued his many great friendships. He leaves behind a legacy of integrity, perseverance and discipline. His commitment to justice was matched only by his devotion to his family. He instilled in them the values of honesty, compassion and strong work ethic, leaving a lasting impact on their lives.

Friends and family are invited to attend a Celebration of Larry’s life at Northwood Funeral Home Cremation and Reception Centre (942 Great Northern Rd, 705-945-7758) on Monday, June 3, 2024 from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. The family looks forward to reconnecting with friends and sharing a memory or two. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to the Algoma Residential Community Hospice (ARCH) or the Sault Area Hospital Foundation would be greatly appreciated.

The family wishes to thank the Care staff and Palliative Doctors at the Sault Area Hospital for their kindness and compassion.