Helen Anita Schneider Cozzie went home to God on Sunday, September 10, 2023, surrounded by her family after a difficult illness. She was born and raised in Swink, Colorado, and was a resident of Colorado Springs, Colorado, for over 60 years.
Helen was born on August 18, 1940, to Floyd and Louisa Schneider (Sawyer). She has one sister, Sue Shelton, of La Junta, Colorado, and one cousin, Beverly Ridings of Colorado Springs. She was preceded in death by her parents Floyd and Louisa.
Helen attended Swink High School, graduating in 1958, and CU Boulder, graduating with a degree in accounting in 1962. She married Phil Cozzie, the love of her life, on August 10, 1963, in La Junta, Colorado. Phil and Helen celebrated their 60th anniversary just a few weeks before her death. Their devotion to each other was apparent in the last weeks of her life as Phil never left her side, and she reached out to hold his hand the entire time. She left this world holding on to his hand.
Helen was a kind, gentle spirit, who always had a little bit of sass and a fantastic laugh. She spent her career as a business teacher in Widefield School District #3. She was a model of faith for her family, and a dedicated choir member at Holy Family and St. Dominic church for decades. She loved hers and all dogs with such passion and devotion that anyone who knew her would want to come back as her dog in their next life.
Helen is survived by her loving and devoted husband, Phil; her two daughters: Beth (Dennis) Neal, Cyndi (Dustin) Haworth; three grandchildren: Zach Neal (Sarah), Grace Hovasse (Chad), Sarabeth Gandara (Steve); one great grandson, Mason Antonio Gandara; her sister, Sue Shelton; her cousin, Beverly Ridings (Oscar); and numerous nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews and dear friends.
A Memorial Mass will be celebrated on Tuesday, September 19, 2023, at 3:00 p.m., at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 1830 South Corona Avenue, Colorado Springs, Colorado 80905. A private interment will take place at a later date.
The family wishes to extend their deepest gratitude to the nurses of Optimal Hospice Care and the staff of Melody Living for their unwavering support, love and care.
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in Helen’s name to A Safe Place for Pets (www.safeplacepets.org) or Fountain Valley Scholars (www.fountainvalleyscholars.wordpress.com).
Elaine Janik
13 Sep 2023I remember Helen fondly from St Dominic’s Choir. When I joined, she was welcoming, kind and a gentle woman. Her smile was infectious. I am very sorry to hear of her passing and know she is at peace. My condolences to her family.
Kim Davis
14 Sep 2023Helen cozier was a true teacher to me. I learned discipline, patience and perseverance. She gave so much to help me become who I am today.
Phillip and Paula Brambila
14 Sep 2023Our Prayers, Love, and Condolences to our extended family! We love you and truly are blessed to have known Helen! God Bless!
Anonymous
14 Sep 2023Dustin and Cyndi , I am so sorry for your loss. Moms are truly the best!! May memories of her give you comfort . God opened his arms big to Welcome her. I will be praying for your family. All my love, Dawn Wendling ❤️❤️❤️
Cathy King
14 Sep 2023Helen was that one gem that shown through her smile. Her treasure was her family. Her love of life was infectious and shared with all who knew her. I am greatful to have known her. God has surely blessed me for having known her.
Kathy & John
17 Sep 2023A life well-lived! Our condolences to all of you.
GREGORY G BUCHANAN
28 Oct 2023Phil and Family,
My deepest sympathy for your loss. Phil was my principal at Sproul, and I can remember a photo of the family on his desk with Helen in front. I don’t think I had the honor of meeting or having her as a teacher, but I do have very fond memories of Phil.