Katie (Kozminske) Hoge

Good-natured, kind, and a blessing to many, Katie Hoge was a very special person to know and love. Everyone lucky enough to have the pleasure of knowing her found comfort in her genuine sincerity and loyal friendship. Gone too soon, she leaves behind many wonderful memories for her special family and friends to cherish lovingly in their hearts forever.

Reflecting on the year 1987, it was a time that brought about disposable contact lenses, the music of Michael Jackson, and the popular television sitcoms Full House and The Simpsons. With the computer age gaining momentum and the excitement of another holiday season approaching, Thomas and Dwana (Ledbetter) Kozminske welcomed their newborn daughter, Katelyn, on January 28th in Kalamazoo, Michigan. Her birth brought much joy and happiness during an optimistic period in history.

Growing up in Portage, Katie lived a typical childhood. Her parents both instilled in her a strong work ethic at an early age. Her father worked a factory job at Chem-Rex, and her mother was a hairdresser. They taught her how to swim in the family’s backyard pool. Katie was active in her teen years and enjoyed participating in competitive cheer in high school. A highlight of these years was getting her first car, a silver Grand Am. Katie was very proud of her car and enjoyed driving to Portage Northern before graduating with the class of 2006.

She met the man who would change the course of her life forever at the VFW in Comstock. Katie and Tyler hit it off one evening, and the rest was history! Tyler was attracted to Katie’s magnetic personality and chased her around for a few weeks. The two of them shared many common interests and eventually started dating. During the warm summer months, they enjoyed going out on the boat together. When it came to date nights, Katie loved going to dinner at Black Rock. During the COVID pandemic, they traveled to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula to visit the casinos, beaches, and golf courses! Most of the time, they just enjoyed one another! Tyler gave Katie a beautiful promise ring and the couple was excited about planning for their future together.

Generous and selfless, Katie was an instant friend to anyone in need. Her warm personality made her easy to get to know, and she found many lasting friendships with her co-workers. Katie loved to plan office parties and was great at gift-giving! She made the office a fun place to work, and people looked forward to hearing about what was happening in her life or what she was planning next. A hard worker, she put her heart and soul into everything she set out to accomplish. Katie was the type of person that everyone wanted to get to know. Accepting and compassionate, she easily made connections with people.

Outside of work, Katie loved spending time with her nieces and nephews. A highlight was taking a trip to Disneyland together. Active and on the go, she also played in a golf league at Hickory Ridge. She loved the game of golf and invested in a set of pink golf clubs, her favorite color! When it came to food, Katie perfected her recipe for cheesy tators and loved French onion soup. Creative and outgoing, there was never a dull moment when she was around.

Above all else, Katie put others first. There wasn’t a single day that she didn’t call her mom. She looked forward to sharing the latest plans or activities in her life. Described as always smiling and happy, she leaves behind a rich legacy of optimism. There is no doubt that her energy, presence, and laughter will be dearly missed. Full of life and joy, Katie modeled the importance of living life to the fullest. May her warm spirit and special collection of memories surround them with peace as they navigate living without her.

Katelyn M. Hoge, age 38, of Augusta, died on June 21, 2025. Katie was born January 28, 1987, in Kalamazoo to Thomas and Dwana (Ledbetter) Kozminske. Katie was preceded in death by her father, Thomas Kozminske; cousin, Derrick Kerley; uncle, Jim Kozminske; grandparents: James and Meta Ledbetter, Clarence and Caroline Kozminske; and her faithful dog Dora. Surviving are her fiancé, Tyler Bush; mother, Dwana Kozminske; siblings: Thomas Kozminske (Casey), and Justin Kozminske; nieces and nephews: Ella, Clara, Charlie, and Wyatt; and many extended family.

Katie was a vibrant soul who brought joy wherever she went, whether planning unforgettable holiday parties or lighting up the office with her laughter. Raised by hardworking parents who taught her the value of giving and grit, she poured her heart into every relationship, every celebration, and every detail. From boating adventures with Tyler, whom she met at the Comstock VFW, to her daily calls with her mom, Katie’s magnetic presence, genuine spirit, and infectious energy will be deeply missed.

Visitation will be held Thursday, July 3rd from 1-5 PM at the Comstock VFW, 5990 E. Michigan Ave., Kalamazoo. Celebrate Katie’s life online by sharing your favorite stories and photos on his/her dedicated webpage at BetzlerLifeStory.com. Memorial contributions may be made to SPCA of Southwest Michigan. Betzler Life Story Funeral Homes, 6080 Stadium Drive, Kalamazoo (269) 375-2900.