Linda Kay Kozora was born to Elmer Ehrig and Dorothy (Bannister) Ehrig on Jan. 28, 1948. From an early age, Linda displayed a heart full of compassion and responsibility. After the passing of her mother, Linda stepped into a caregiving role, helping raise her younger siblings with an unshakable sense of duty and love.
In her younger years, Linda had a deep passion for playing basketball, riding and driving horses, she milked cows, tended chickens and helped farm. This led to her adventurous spirit that would shape much of her life. She was always ready for new experiences, and her joyful heart was contagious to those around her.
Linda Married Michael Kozora in October 1978, and welcomed their son James (Dawn) Kozora and daughter Maxine Kozora (Jason Hanson). Mike also had two daughters from a previous marriage, Lisa (Steve) Klein and Brenda Spiers.
Linda had an unwavering love for her family, and her greatest joy came from spending time with her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren — whom affectionately called her “GG.” She cherished every moment with them, whether attending sporting events, cheering them on loudly or creating sweet memories through baking and playing cards.
Linda was an avid fan of old country music, Elvis and all types of sports. She loved to dance, golf, and fish, living every moment with an infectious joy for life. She also made it a point to be there for her loved ones, always ready to offer help, love or a listening ear.
Linda passed away peacefully on Jan. 17, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family at Avera Medical Hospital in Sioux Falls, S.D.
Linda is survived by her son James (Dawn) Kozora; daughter Maxine Kozora (Jason Hanson); stepdaughters, Lisa (Steve) Klein and Brenda Speirs; siblings: Beverly (Joe) Feeney, Sally Ehrig, John Ehrig, James Ehrig and Mary (Steve) Waltman; 16 grandchildren; and 14 great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Michael Kozora, in 2015; parents, Elmer and Dorothy Ehrig; brothers, Donald and Lyle Ehrig; and sister Tina Mae Ehrig.
A Celebration of Life service will be held on Saturday, June 7, beginning at 11:30 a.m. at Little Sioux Park, Correctionville. A meal will start and noon and sharing of moments will follow. Linda’s family invites all to gather for a celebration of her life — a time to share stories, reflect on the joy she brought into our lives, and honor her legacy of love, laughter and kindness.
“Her love for family, friends and life will remain in our hearts forever.”
