Daniel Koza

Daniel Richard Koza, 72, of Lancaster, Ohio, passed away peacefully at FairHope Hospice on September 4, 2026.

Born November 15, 1953, in Trenton, Michigan, Daniel was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. He is survived by his beloved wife of 42 years, Gail; his children, Christopher (Colleen) Belford, Jesse (Melissa) Koza, & Heather (Chuck Amnah) Koza; three grandchildren; his sisters, Leann Walton & KayCe Warner; and many nieces, nephews, & extended family. He was preceded in death by his parents, Daniel Koza and Emily Koza (née Emmons).

Daniel proudly served his country in the United States Air Force, serving from 1971 to 1975 and retiring honorably as a Sergeant and Electronic Warfare Specialist. Following his military service, he worked for many years as a truck driver and warehouse yard driver.

Daniel was a hardworking, dependable man who lived his life for his family. He loved NASCAR, crossword puzzles, brain teasers, and Sudoku—and he loved his wife, Gail, deeply.

He was known for being a strong-willed, no-nonsense man who preached "The three Rs: Responsibility, Reliability & Respect". But when his grandchildren came along, his family met a gentler side of him that few were privileged to see. For exactly 17 wonderful years, he became the softest man in the world. As their beloved Pop Pop, he made sure his grandchildren had everything they needed and gave them a lifetime of love, guidance, and memories.

He showed up. He worked hard. He took care of his people. He loved his family. And he was there.

A Celebration of Life will be held October 18, 2026, from 2:00–5:00 p.m. at Pine Lake Estates in Lancaster, Ohio. Family and friends are welcome to gather, share memories, and celebrate Daniel’s life.

Rest easy, Pop Pop. You did good. ❤️