Elisabeth “Oma” Kozo

Elisabeth Kozo, a beloved mother and grandmother, steadfast friend, and extraordinary role model, passed away on February 23, 2026, surrounded by love with her children and grandchildren at her side. Having just celebrated her 88 th birthday, Elisabeth was the last of six children and now joins her parents, Janos Gereben and Maria Schnedier, and her siblings, George, Theresa, Mary, Anna, and Agnes.

Elisabeth was born in Hungary, but when she was 6 years old, the family was forced to relocate in the middle of the night to Germany by the Soviets. Oma and her family had to adapt to the new life in a new country. As she grew up, she did well in school, learned how to cook and sew. Unsurprising to her family, she was the best dancer in the village and caught the attention of the boys in school. In her early 20s, she followed her older siblings to Canada to try to make a better life. There, she learned English by watching TV as she worked the jobs she could find, building a good a life for herself.

After relocating so often in her youth, she eventually developed a travel bug. She enjoyed seeing the world, tasting new food, and learning about other cultures, often reminiscing about her trips to the Alps, Chile, Tunisia, China, and more. She was known for her strength and practicality, the kind of person you could count on. She had a distinct sense of humor and a contagious laugh that would often infect an entire room.

Elisabeth is survived by two children, Steven Racz (wife Kim) and Linda Self (husband Don); two grandchildren, Erik Racz (wife Sarah) and Dillon Self; two adorable great grandchildren, Isabella and Nash; and several good friends, especially Joyce Dechert and Jo-Anne Byer. She passes on her passions for cooking, gardening and traveling to her grandchildren with trips to Italy and Ireland planned for this year. She also passed on the importance of good manners, strong work ethics, and countless life lessons.

As we remember Elisabeth Kozo, we celebrate a life well-lived, full of laughs and love, and the joy she brought into the world. We are thankful for the support she gave, the wonderful family she raised, the generosity she showed, friendships she fostered, and the memories she gave us. 

Per with Elisabeth’s wishes, there will not be a funeral or celebration of life. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you donate a meal to a local shelter.