Richard “KO” Kozak Sr., 87, of Conway, passed away on March 18th, 2026. He was born on September 21st, 1938, a beloved son of the late John and Antoinette Kozak.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 66 years, Sandy Kozak, his sisters, Agnes, Marion, and Joan and his brothers: John, Joe, Ed, Frank, Bill, Tom, and Chuckie. He is survived by his loving children, Kathy (Ron) Coder and Richard (Betsy) Kozak Jr., his sister, Patti (Tom) Watters, his brothers, Bob (Pat) Kozak and Leonard Kozak, his sister in laws, Bong Jae Kozak and Betty Kozak, and many cherished nieces and nephews.

Richard, who fondly known as “KO,”  took great pride in his work as a meat cutter for over 60 years, owning Kozak’s Custom Meats and later serving customers at Giant Eagle in Baden with his signature smile and personalized care, retiring at 80. He loved the outdoors, especially hunting and the special bonds he formed. At 50, he discovered golf and quickly made it a passion, spending countless days at Blackhawk Golf Course refining his game, enjoying fierce competition, and expanding his circle of friends. Though he left the farm he grew up on, it never left him. He found joy in plowing snow for neighbors, tending his garden, and sharing its harvest. Even at 80, he continued to grow, and wrote his book, Sacred Showdown, capturing his life, stories, and wisdom. He was steady, dependable, and quietly impactful—a man people gravitated to, and trusted. A devoted husband of 68 years and a loving father, he led by example with hard work, perseverance, and unwavering love for his family. His faith anchored his life. He was quiet, steady, and lived it out daily through humility, generosity, and how he cared and mentored others. His life was a lesson in how to live well, love deeply, and finish strong.

A visitation will be held on Sunday, March 22nd, from 1–5 P.M. at Alvarez-Hahn Funeral Services and Cremation, LLC, 547 8th Street, Ambridge, who was in charge of his arrangements, and where a Celebration of Life and Blessing Service will take place on Monday, March 23rd, at 10 A.M. Burial will be private.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the staff and friends at Crossroads Beaver Creek, Alexis and Leslie (“CR Angels”), Laura Blackston, and his neighbors on Cottage Avenue for their love and care.