Gerald Walter Kozuch

Gerald Walter Kozuch, 78 years old, passed to his eternal rest on September 4, 2023 peacefully at home with family at his side.

Gerald was born on October 17, 1944 in South Bend to the late Walter and Dorothy (Klysz) Kozuch.  He was also preceded in death by his brother, Gregory Kozuch.

Jerry Had so many success stories. Starting in his early years, after graduating Washington High School in Chicago, Jerry completed barber school and joined in his father’s family business, Walts Barber Shop on IN Ave. This was the start to becoming a brilliant business entrepreneur. After enlisting in the marines and serving in the reserves, he earned his black belt in Shorin-Ryu Karate. Being the first American student to be belted by Tadashi Yamashita, who worked with Bruce Lee and Elvis. More Importantly, Tadashi introduced Jerry to the love of his life and wife of 55 years, Carolyn Kozuch (Staples). Together the two started his biggest legacy of owning and operating Koach’s. Franchising with Curtis Mathes T. V.’s in 1978, they went on to form Koach’s Rent to Own and Movie Rentals in 13 operating locations. They later incorporated payday loans and a pawn shop, introducing Koach’s Kash Station. As a side business they also owned Koach and Koach Properties with multiple strip malls, apartments, and houses.

Outside of his passion for business he was a strong family man- raising two daughters Michele Lynn (James Wallace) Melton and Jennifer Rebecca (Paul) Guess along with his 2 grandchildren, Noah Walter Guess and Abagayle Jean Guess.

Jerry was a devoted Chicago White Sox fan and loved taking anyone to a game. He also enjoyed a good casino, whether in Las Vegas or right down the road at Four Winds. Jerry was the biggest jokester and loved to get a laugh out of people. He was also known to save a buck anytime, anywhere with a coupon or just his gift or gab.

Jerry was an amazing mentor an father figure to many around him, he will be remembered for his bright smile, contagious laugh, and his powerful desire to see people succeed whole heartedly in life. Good Day!

Friends and family will be received Wednesday, September 13, 2023, from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm at St. Joseph Funeral Home, 824 S Mayflower Rd South Bend. A Funeral Service will be held at 11:00 am Thursday, September 14, 2023 at the funeral home with a one-hour visitation prior to the service. Burial will take place at St. Joseph Cemetery at a later date.

Online condolences can be made at sjfh.net.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.