The Life of Wanda (Kufta) Kozicki)

“She needs no books, nor worms, nor hooks; There’s bait enough in her bright eyes.” Wanda Kufta’s Muskegon Heights High School senior yearbook had this line next to her name when she graduated in 1946. Apparently, the “bait” worked and Wanda, age 23, successfully “fished” for a husband and married Joseph Kozicki on October 7, 1950. The wedding took place at St. Michael’s Church in Muskegon, Michigan. I do not have a wedding picture. Wanda and Joseph had three children: Michael, John and Ann Marie (deceased). Joseph was in the United States Army Air Corp during World War II and later worked for Construction Aggregates in Ferrysburg, Michigan. Wanda worked as a telephone operator for Michigan Bell in Spring Lake, Michigan. ***** Wanda (Kufta) Koszicki (my 1rst cousin 1x removed) was born February 1, 1927 in Muskegon, Michigan. Her parents were Frank Kufta and Mary (Raczkiewicz) Kufta. Frank was a 34-year-old foundry worker and Mary was 27 years old. They were married the year before. Wanda’s birth Wanda was the firstborn of three daughters: Irene, who was born a year later in 1928, and Teresa, who was born in 1935. ***** Maria Mastee and Wanda shared a strong faith and family connections. Wanda was Maria’s husband’s aunt. Maria shared that, “She knew about the Virgin of Guadalupe in Mexico and she shared information about Our Lady of Czestochowa. We talked about Mexican food and about my culture. I'm Hispanic and I was born and raised in Laredo, Texas, a border city to Mexico. She loved looking at pictures and praised me for having a crucifix above our doors. She was always happy and I enjoyed talking to her. I liked the love for crafting that she had. David and I have been married for 39 years and recently we have become members of the Divine Mercy family. Auntie Wanda made me feel welcome into the Mastee family from the first time I met her. David and I were both blessed with great parents and family that are always in our hearts.” Her daughter-in-law, Teresa Kozicki, added that, “Wanda was a hoot! I wish I would’ve known her for longer.” And her sister Theresa Parkanzky added to that, “I miss my sister. And I agree she was a hoot!” ***** Wanda and Joseph were married 59 years before he died in 2009. Wanda died in 2020, at the age of 93. She had moved from Spring Lake to the Fremont area and was a member of St. Bartholomew Catholic Church in Newaygo, Michigan. According to her obituary, she enjoyed collecting antiques, quilting, crafts and riding her bicycle.