John Albert Kozen

John Albert Kozen, 76, of Airmont, New York, passed away on August 16, 2022, due to complications from prostate cancer. He was born in Patterson, New Jersey, and grew up in nearby Paramus, where he developed lifelong interests in the military and auto mechanics, playing army and rebuilding a WWII army jeep. He graduated from Paramus High School and went on to attend Norwich University in Northfield, Vermont, graduating with a BS in Business Administration. John was commissioned as a 2nd Lt. and began his military career by attending Quartermaster School at Fort Lee, Virginia. After completing Quartermaster school, he was stationed in Zweibrucken, Germany, but before reporting for duty overseas, he married his love and partner, Carla. In Germany, the couple made lifelong memories and friendships, and John pursued his interest in cars. He left active duty after a tour in Vietnam, but later served in the National Guard and the Army Reserves. His military career ended for good after he was activated again following 9/11, and spent 9 months at Tobyhanna Army Depot in Tobyhanna, Pennsylvania. He retired as a LTC, but never tired of sharing tales of his military experiences and always had a story for family, friends, and even strangers.

As a civilian, John worked as an automotive accountant. He loved providing car advice and working in his custom-built garage, known to everyone as Garage Mahal. He spent hours working on his cars, especially his Porsche, and repairing odd and assorted broken engines. It seemed as if he could repair anything.

John was an active member of Bergen Highlands United Methodist Church in Upper Saddle River, New Jersey, where his fix-it skills and knowledge of mechanics were often called upon for repairs. The church community appreciated his stories, generosity of time, and humor.

A loving husband, father, and grandfather, he is survived by Carla, his wife of almost 54 years, and his daughters, Kendra Free (Shane) and Kara Henderson (Jonathan). John was also blessed with 3 grandchildren, Alexander, Samantha, and Bryce, who brought him enormous pleasure.

He will be buried at Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery in Schuylerville, New York. A memorial service in celebration of his life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on September 24 at Bergen Highlands United Methodist Church, 318 W Saddle River Road, Upper Saddle River, New Jersey, 07458 (https://www.bergenhighlandsumc.org/).

In lieu of flowers or other tributes, the family suggests a donation to Bergen Highlands United Methodist Church or Norwich University (scholarships: https://www.givecampus.com/campaigns/29921/donations/new).

Thank you to all of those who supported John throughout his illness, including family, friends, and the caregivers and medical staff at John Theurer Cancer Center, Procure Proton Therapy Center, and Good Samaritan Hospital.

John will be remembered for his love of life and family; his service, stories, and ability to fix almost anything; and as a prolific collector of random stuff. “First of the day, John.”

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.wanamakercarlough.com for the Kozen family.