Eugene Frank Kozuszek

Eurgene “Gene” Frank Kozuszek passed away peacefully on March 14, 2025, at the age of 90 years, 3 months, and 16 days. Born on December 26, 1934, in Posen, IL, Gene was the beloved son of Casimer and Angela (Nellie Malawy) Kozuszek, who preceded him in death.

He was also preceded in death by his brother Ernie Kozuszek and George Conway, brother-in-law Gene Vetz, Ed Bargiel, and nephew Kent Kozuszek.

Gene grew up on the family farm and played an essential role in its development. In 1956, he left the farm to work at Fischer Body in St. Louis, MO. However, his dedication to family brought him back to the farm in 1957, where he also found employment at Moedahl Ford in Nashville, IL.

In 1958, Gene began his career as a butcher at Nashville Meat Locker, where he worked until 1975. He then joined Pinckneyville Processing Plant before taking a job at Wennemann's Meat Market in St. Libory, IL in 1978. Gene continued to work there until his retirement in 2007.

Gene had a true passion for his work as a butcher, often boasting about his secret recipe for summer sausage, which became highly popular among his customers. His culinary skills extended beyond the butcher shop, as he was also revered for his delicious fried chicken, which he prepared for countless weddings at St. Libory Hall.

Gene was well known for his bowling skills during the 1970s and 1980s at the Nashville Bowling Alley, where he earned numerous trophies. His love for music was evident as he coordinated and played the accordion for the Oakdale Easter Eggstravaganza from 1991 to 2006.

A dedicated member of the Knights of Columbus at St. Ann's Church in Nashville, IL, Gene actively participated for over 40 years. He was a familiar face at the bar stand during the annual Maifest, and he contributed to many Chicken and Beer Dances, Bingo games, Fish fries, and parking cars at the Pinckneyville Thresherman's events.

Gene's vibrant personality, dedication to his family and community, and his many talents will be fondly remembered by all who knew him. His legacy of service and joy will continue to inspire those who had the privilege of knowing him.

Gene is survived by a loving family who will deeply miss him. Those left to mourn his loss include his 4 children and 10 grandchildren: Jeff Kozuszek (Nick, Brendan, Charly and Gabriella) of Centralia, IL; Cynthia Cookson (Cole and Matthew Sauerhage) of Fairview Heights, IL; Catherine Adkins (Jared (Melina) and Taylor) of Lake Villa, IL; and Angela (Joe) Stambaugh (Addison and Brooklyn) of Nashville, IL.

He is also survived by his siblings: Evelyn Vetz of St. Louis, MO; Harry (Florence) Kozuszek of Nashville, IL, Delores Bargiel of St. Louis, MO; Leona (Rick) Litzau of Manchester, MO; Joann (Pat) Muenks of Glencoe, MO; Ted Conway and Leonard Conway of St. Louis, MO; Fred (Tracy) Kozuszek of Nashville, IL; Clarence Kozuszek of Nashville, IL; and David (Mary) Kozuszek of Scheller, IL.

In addition, Gene leaves behind many nieces and nephews, as well as other relatives and friends too numerous to mention. His memory will be cherished by all who knew him.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, March 20, 2025 at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church in Posen with Fr. Nick Muenks officiating.  Burial will follow in the church cemetery.  Friends may call from 9:00 to 10:30 on Thursday at the Styninger Funeral Home in Nashville, the rosary will be recited at 8:30 a.m.  Memorial contributions may be made to the church or Angel for Autism. Online expressions of sympathy may be made at www.styningerfuneralhomes.com or on the funeral homes Facebook page. 

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