Richard J. Koszela

Richard J. Koszela, 73, of New Castle passed away the morning of December 10, 2022 at UPMC Presbyterian Hospital.

Born on September 3, 1949 in New Castle, Richard was the son of the late Stanley and Helen (Kwolek) Koszela. Richard is survived by his beloved wife of 34 years, the former Sharon L. Ash.  

Richard was Roman Catholic and attended Holy Spirit Parish, St. Camillus Site. Richard was a graduate of New Castle High School, class of 1967 and became a chef at the Pennsylvania Culinary Institute of Pittsburgh. 

Richard worked as a chef and Catering Director at Grove City College for many years.  His meals were well known at the College Presidents’ events and had the opportunity to cook at several major events, including the U.S. Open at Oakmont.  Richard was an avid sports fan, with the Cleveland Browns and Penn State football being his favorites.

A loving husband, father and grandfather, Richard’s greatest joy was spending time with his family, attending his grandchildren’s activities and trips to the beach. He also loved cooking for his family and friends and caring for his dog, Charlie and grand-dogs, Lucy and Reesie. 

In addition to his wife Sharon, Richard is survived and lovingly remembered by his three children, Bobbi (Jason) Medure and Joey Sheppard, both of New Castle, and Kristen (Alan) Veliky of Irwin, PA; brother, Stanley “Rocky” (Barb) Koszela of Myrtle Beach, SC; two sisters, Marie Patti, and Patricia (James) Uram, both of New Wilmington; sisters-in-law, Nancy (Larry) Forletta, Roxane (Shawn) Million and Stacey (Joseph) Bucker, all of New Castle; three grandchildren, Juliana Medure, Mara Grace Medure, and Milana Sheppard; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents and brother-in-law, Joseph Patti.

The family wishes to send a special thank you to Dr. Paul Wawrzynski for his friendship, care and compassion.

Honoring his wishes, there is no visitation.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, December 14, 2022 at Holy Spirit Parish-St. Camillus site. The Rev. Ben Barr, Parochial Vicar of Holy Spirit Parish will officiate. 

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