John Kozlowski - U.S. Navy 1944-46

We are sorry to hear of John’s passing. RIP (MAY 16, 1926 – JANUARY 31, 2024)

John Kozlowski joined the Navy while he was still in High School and was inducted into the service in June 1944. After Boot Camp he was assigned to Navy Armed Guard as a Gunner’s Mate on a Merchant Marine ship. John’s ship, the tanker Tidal Gas, sailed mainly in the South Atlantic and Caribbean. Due to the War winding down, John found himself, as a Gunner Mate 3rd Class, in charge of about 20 Navy sailors after losing their Ensign and Coxswain. After leaving the Tidal Gas, John was assigned to guard German POW’s. He was discharged from the Navy in June of 1946.

Obituary

John Eugene Kozlowski, “Jack/Frank” of Auburn Hills, MI, passed to be with the Lord on 1-31-24 at the age of 97. Loving husband to the late Josephine Rose for 65 years. Dear friend of Lou Oles. Selfless Father to Doug (Jean), Cindy Petrillo and Jack. Wonderful Grandfather to Nick (Tai) Petrillo, Shane Petrillo, Alexandria, and Jack Jr. Kozlowski. Caring Great- Grandfather to Kase and Lila Rose Petrillo. Loving Godfather to niece Karen Howie.

John was a WWII U.S. Armed Guard Veteran- Gunners Mate Third class. He retired as the C.F.O of Metropolitan Hospital in Detroit, MI. John was a golfer, sports and car racing enthusiast, and avid coin collector. He participated in many charitable and Veteran related clubs/affiliations, including State Commander for the Polish Legion of American Veterans, American Polish Century Club, Fourth Degree Knights of Columbus, Warren Polka Boosters, Birmingham Coin Club, Polish American Numismatic Society, Elks Club member, Michigan State Numismatic Society, Great Lakes National Cemetery Advisory Council in Holly MI. John was the consummate family man, He always put family, relatives, and friends first, who would NOT miss a family event, if possible.

This video was produced for USA Warrior Stories by The Rowlinson Media Group, Vero Beach FL.