Woodstock, Vermont

In Loving Memory of a Remarkable Man: Richard Francis Kozlowski

With heavy hearts, we announce the sudden passing of Richard Kozlowski on Saturday January 6, 2024, a cherished husband, father, brother, and pillar of our community. Rich left us unexpectedly, leaving behind a legacy marked by a laugh that was so contagious, it had everyone around him joining in. He had a picture-ready smile, and a passion for life that touched the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know him.

Born July 13, 1962 in Brooklyn and raised in Long Island, NY, Rich's life journey brought him to Vermont in 1993, where he embraced his community wholeheartedly. His vivacious spirit and zest for life were evident in every aspect of his being.

A true Renaissance man, Rich was not just an avid marathon runner, Spartan finisher, and accomplished triathlete, but also a black belt in Karate. His love for cycling, skiing, snowshoeing, and a good challenge on the Scrabble board showcased his commitment to an active and adventurous lifestyle. Weekends were filled with being outside and physically active with his beloved wife followed by a well earned IPA.

Rich's green thumb and passion for gardening produced remarkable results. His famous spaghetti pie has become a cherished family tradition. His love for sports extended to being a proud Yankee fan, and his competitive spirit in high-stakes Scrabble games was legendary.

Often mistaken for Stanley Tucci, Rich's dashing presence and charismatic demeanor left a lasting impression on those who encountered him.

Deeply committed to community service, Rich dedicated nearly 30 years to the Woodstock Rotary with a few stints as President. His leadership roles in the Thompson Senior Center Board, Woodstock Chamber of Commerce, Merten's House as treasurer, and the Town of Hartford Planning Commission demonstrated his unwavering commitment to making a difference.

In his professional life, Rich spent 30 years in the local banking industry. However, his greatest source of pride was as a devoted father, cherishing the accomplishments of his daughters, Genevieve and Kristin, from high school musicals to debate team triumphs and their pursuit of master's degrees and big moves to Los Angeles.

Rich's journey took him from Brooklyn to Long Island, and he took immense pride in his Polish and Italian heritage. In the process of securing dual citizenship with Italy, he celebrated his roots and embraced the cultural richness of his ancestry.

Rich is survived by his beloved wife, Jennifer Baxter, his beautiful daughters Genevieve Kozlowski and Kristin Kozlowski, his sister Karen Signoretti, his step-daughters Alexandra Duffy and Shannon Duffy and ex-wife Pamela Kozlowski. He is predeceased by his mother Ernestine Ferrentino and his father Edward Kozlowski.

In this time of grief, let us remember Rich for the infectious laughter and bright smile that lit up our lives. May his spirit live on in the memories we hold dear, and may his legacy inspire us to embrace life with the same vigor that defined his remarkable journey.

Friends and community members are encouraged to join the family to celebrate Rich's life on Sunday January 14th at 2:00pm at the Unitarian Universalist Chapel in Woodstock. A continuation of the celebration will follow at Dr. Coburn's Tonic.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to be made to the Woodstock Rotary, P.O. 581, Woodstock, Vermont 05091 in Rich's honor.

A link to the service can be found here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pGIJhX5z5tQ