Gerald Frank Koziolek

Arlington - Gerald Frank "Butch" Koziolek passed away peaceably on December 3, 2017 at age 75. Memorial Service 3pm Friday, December 8 at Wade Family Funeral Home in Arlington. A Viewing is scheduled 6-8pm Thursday, December 7 at the funeral home. Memorials: In lieu of flowers it is suggested a donation to the Colon Cancer Alliance or Kidney Cancer Association. The last of seven children, Gerald Frank "Butch"Koziolek , was born on February 13, 1942 to Emily and Frank Koziolek in Michigan City, Indiana. Growing up as the youngest he was the center of attention being very cute, personable, and smart. He graduated at 17 in 1959 from Michigan City Elston High School. He received a football scholarship to play for the University of Washington in Seattle so he headed west. Never having been away from home and so young he returned to Indiana after his first semester. He then attended and graduated from Indian University. At IU he met Carol Smith on a blind date and they were married in 1965. After marriage they lived in Michigan City where Butch taught junior high social studies and coached football. They returned to IU in 1969 for Butch to get his masters. When he got his Masters in Education in 1970 he accepted a job at the Education Service Center, Region XI in Fort Worth where he became Media Director. He retired in 1997. He was a devoted father to his four children Matthew, Melissa, Philip, and Nan. He coached them in various sports when they were young and always gave them sage advice. Butch was a great storyteller and a devout Catholic. Butch was predeceased by his parents Emily and Frank; brothers Leonard and Richard; sisters Jean, Loretta, Rita, and Joan; and his daughter Melissa. Survivors: Butch is survived by his wife Carol; his children Matthew (Susan), Philip, Nan (Kyle); grandchildren, Andrea (Chris), Zach W, Zach B, Emily, Dylan, Garrett, Sullivan, Delaney, Rye and great grandchildren William and Xander; numerous nephews, nieces, and dear friends. The Polish Prince will be truly missed by all. Wade Family Funeral Home 817-274-9233