Joseph Kozel

Norwich — Joseph Kozel, 90, passed away peacefully at Pendleton Healthcare & Rehab in Mystic on Thursday, June 7, 2018.

He was born in Avella, Pa., on Dec. 11, 1927, to the late Peter and Frances (Arnold) Kozel. After completing high school, Joe joined the U.S. Navy, serving during World War II. After his honorable discharge, Joe met the love of his life, Assunta (D’Elia). They were married on Jan. 8, 1949, at Saints Peter & Paul Church in Norwich; she survives him.

Joe became a civilian employee for the Department of Defense as the supervisor of shipbuilding, working at the Electric Boat location until his retirement. There, he received an award for his work on assisting ships during and after sea trials. When not working, Joe enjoyed carrying on his avid athletic lifestyle playing softball, volleyball and golfing. He enjoyed family time, especially time spent with his grandson, Sasha.

He is survived by his wife, Assunta; his daughters, Susan and Geralyn; his son-in-law, Michael Frishman; his grandson, Sasha Frishman; and several nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by three brothers and one sister.

Visitation will be held from noon to 1:30 p.m. Friday, June 15, 2018, at Church & Allen Funeral Home, 136 Sachem St., Norwich, with a memorial service commencing at 1:30 p.m. Burial with military honors will immediately follow at St. Joseph Cemetery in Norwich.

Donations in Joe’s memory may be made to the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America at 322 8th Ave. 7th Flr., NY, NY 10001, calling 1-866-232-8484 or online at www.alzfdn.org, or to the animal rescue charity of the donor’s choice.

To leave an online condolence or share a memory, please visit www.churchandallen.com.