Michael M. Koczan, age 96, passed away peacefully on Friday, January 4th, 2013 at Coventry Health Center, Coventry, RI. He was born on February 29th, 1916 in Farrell, Pennsylvania to Felix and Blanche Koczan.

He lived in Warwick and was an active member of Greenwood Presbyterian Church for 63 years. During that time he taught Sunday school, sang in the choir, bowled in the church league, served as a deacon and as an elder, belonged to 39er's as well as many committees. He was a prolific writer and photographer for the church newspaper.

Michael was a veteran of WWII serving in the Army Air Corp. as Engineer of Crew # R150 855th Squadron of the 491st Bombardment Group H part of the Second Air Division, Mighty Eighth Air Force, Flying Missions out of England. He was a member of the American Legion and Williams Shields Post 43. Mike was employed at Brown University as Equipment Manager prior to his retirement.

He was the husband of the late Donna (Wilgus) Koczan for 62 years, beloved father of Kristin (Dennis) Wild, Hot Springs Village, AR. Loving grandfather of Kelli-lyn (Ty) Clark, Wylie, TX and Regan (Matt) Whitehead, Allen, TX. Cherished great-grandfather of Kaylee Clark, Trista Clark, Jacob Clark, Mason Whitehead and Manning Whitehead. He was preceded in death by sisters Phyllis Halupka, Joanna Lanning, Mary Prokes and Victoria Plagman.

"Mikee" was a very special man; he was a friend to all. He loved sports and could be seen in the winter "skate sailing" Little Pond or playing Santa Claus for MS patients or the mentally ill at the State Institutions or his own grandchildren and families. Always an optimist, a practical joker, a happy caring person willing to help whomever, you will be sorely missed.

Visitation Friday, Jan. 11, 2013 5:00-7:00 pm Cranston-Murphy Funeral Home, 140 West Main Street, Wickford Village, North Kingstown. Memorial Service Jan. 12, 2013 9:00 am Greenwood Community Church Presbyterian, 805 Main Avenue, Warwick. Interment immediately following in R.I. Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Exeter.

The family wishes to thank Susan Howard and staff of Coventry Health Center and the church Family of Greenwood Church for their tireless help and love. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to Greenwood Comm. Church, 805 Main Ave, Warwick, RI 02886 or caringbridge.org.

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Cranston - Murphy Funeral Home of Wickford
140 West Main Street
North Kingstown, Rhode Island 02852
401-294-4013