Obituary of Ezra L. Kotzin

Ezra L. Kotzin Died peacefully on Monday, October 29, 2012. Beloved husband of the late Margaret. Devoted father of David (Kristy) Kotzin, Dr. Brian (Kit) Kotzin and Dr. Michael (Mindy) Kotzin. Cherished grandfather of 9 and great grandfather of 9. Loving brother of Gordon Kotzin and the late Milton and Joseph Kotzin. Ezra spent his early years in Rochester, New York. After marrying Margaret, they resided in Buffalo, New York where they started their family. Many years later, they relocated to Columbus, Ohio until they finally settled in the Chicagoland area. Ezra graduated from the University of Rochester Eastman School of Music in 1941 and was an accomplished musician and oboist. He was selected as first oboist for the All American Youth Orchestra (Leopold Stokowski, conductor) when they toured South America. Over the years he taught numerous oboe students and performed with many symphony orchestras, including the Buffalo (NY) Philharmonic Orchestra (Franco Autori, conductor) and Evanston (Illinois) Symphony Orchestra. He was a metallurgist and spent his first 24 career years in production foundries. Following that, Ezra was employed by American Colloid Company and then Howard Foundry. In 1970, he joined American Foundry Society (AFS) where he served as technical director retiring 32 years later as the Vice President of Engineering Services. During that period he authored and edited several books, numerous technical papers and was a highly respected technical speaker making presentations internationally to industry groups and companies. He was a regular instructor for the Cast Metals Institute as well as for numerous other metal casting organizations and companies. Over the years, Ezra received numerous awards and recognitions, including Foundry M&T Magazine’s Foundryman of the Year for 2000. After 62 years in the metal casting industry he retired in 2002. In 2003 he received the Thomas W. Pangborn Gold Medal, the highest honor given by the metal casting industry, recognizing his service and contributions. He was well respected by so many in his field. He leaves a very memorable legacy. Graveside services will be held on Monday, November 5, 2012 at 11 AM in Britton Road Cemetery. Click here for directions to the cemetery. Home Wilmette, IL Donations