Andrew John Koziuk passed away on Saturday, May 3, 2025, at age 36. Born in Owosso, Michigan, to Glen and Jodi (Raffaelli) Koziuk on October 5, 1988, Andrew was an outgoing son, brother, uncle, nephew, and cousin. He enjoyed his work as a teacher, educator, and coach. At a young age, the family moved to Colorado Springs, Colorado, where Andrew would spend his youth and most of his adult life. He is remembered for his Catholic faith, family and caring for others, including his students and athletes.
Andrew graduated from the University of Northern Colorado and later pursued a master’s degree in education. He started teaching in the Lake City School District in Lake City, Colorado, where he was immediately enamored with Lake City and its students. Andrew later moved back to Colorado Springs to teach in District 20 at Rampart High School, an alumnus. He taught social studies and was the head track and field coach and cross-country coach.
Andrew, known affectionately by most of the students and staff, simply as “Koziuk,” was much more than a social studies teacher and coach. He was a mentor, a friend, and a passionate champion of his community, as well as faithful member of the Catholic faith. One of his gifts to others was making everyone feel accepted and being a part of and achieving something bigger than themselves. It was nearly impossible to be sad in his presence. He enjoyed the outdoors, travel, and sports of many kinds.
Andrew is survived by his grandmother, Norma (Conklin) Raffaelli; parents, Glen and Jodi (Raffaelli) Koziuk; sister, Alicia (Koziuk) Griffen; and nephews, Hunter and Elijah. He is preceded in death by his grandfathers, John Raffaelli and Albert Koziuk, and grandmother, Velma (Morris) (Koziuk) Churchill.
Services for Andrew at Saint Patrick Catholic Parish, Colorado Springs, Colorado, include a Vigil at 6:00 p.m. on Friday, May 9, 2025, and Funeral Mass at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 10.
In lieu of flowers, donations are being accepted to the “Koziuk Memorial AVP Scholarship Fund” in support of AVP students participating in Career Start, those students pursuing high school off-campus vocation trades programs.
To donate, visit the following link, text KOZIUK to 53555, or access the QR code below.
Sage
10 May 2025I had Mr K as my teacher in high school, he always greeted us with a bright smile, never got frustrated when we were getting too rowdy and overall made you feel welcome and safe. I cherish having known him and the impact he made on my life. If he was ever having a bad day, we truly never knew. He was full of
positivity and I strive to be more like him. More positive, more uplifting. I am so sad to see his passing but I know he will have a lasting impact on this earth in every individual he has crossed paths with. Enjoy paradise up in Heaven !
Ava Denman
11 May 2025Mr. Koziuk was the best mentor, teacher, leader and person! He’s made such an impact on all of the people he came across. He will be missed! Thank you for being the reason I’m at the point in my career I am today! Thinking of him always! God bless him and his family!