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Isadore Kozatch

Isadore Kozatch

Isadore Kozatch, who in WW II flew combat missions over Europe and received France’s Legion of Honor Medal, passed away April 19, 2021, in Denver. Rabbi Steven Foster officiated at the April 20 service at Rodef Shalom; burial was at Emanuel Cemetery. Feldman Mortuary made the arrangements.

“He was a beloved member of the community, a man with a unique personality and great sense of humor,” the family said. “He was an unforgettable person: respected, admired, and loved by those who knew and understood him.”

Mr. Kozatch was born Nov. 8, 1921, in Mons, Belgium and immigrated to the US with his parents in 1923.

In August, 1942, he enlisted in the Army Air Corps and spent the next three years flying combat missions over Europe. While awaiting transfer in Denver in 1944, he met his future spouse, Ida Epstein, at a USO picnic.

Mr. Kozatch was honorably discharged from the military in Sept., 1945 and received 10 awards and decorations for bravery. He returned to Denver and married Ida on Jan. 6, 1946.

Mr. Kozatch bought a small used furniture store on 34th and Franklin. By 1964, he grew the business into Franklin’s Furniture, a large furniture and carpet store on the corner of 18th and Wazee downtown.

His son Jerry joined him in the business in April, 1977. They were partners until the store closed in 1995.

In his retirement years, Mr. Kozatch was an avid fisherman, read extensively, traveled, attended Elder Hostels and attended college at DU.

Mrs. Kozatch became ill in the late 1990s and Mr. Kozatch cared for her at home. She died on April 17, 2009.

On May 25, 2018, Mr. Kozatch was awarded the French Legion Of Honor Medal, the highest decoration the French government gives to those who defended France in WW I and WW II, at the Colorado State Capitol.

Isadore Kozatch is survived by sisters-in-law Shirley and Joan Epstein; children Marcie Bayaz, Jerry (Vail) Kozatch, and Rivka Yerushalmi; grandchildren Shai (Tamara) Bayaz, Shachar (Sarit) Bayaz, Lia and Mara Kozatch; and nine great-grandchildren.

Donations may be made in his memory to JNF, The Denver Hospice or Gateway Domestic Violence Services.

Copyright © 2021 by the Intermountain Jewish News




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