Michael Kohut

Michael Kohut was born in Ukraine, where he carried lifelong memories of his homeland. As a child, he walked barefoot in the snow, shared lively dinners with neighbors filled with music and singing, and tended to the family’s milk cow amid the beauty of the mountains and wildflowers. During World War II, his village sheltered Jewish people in their barns, until his family was sent to a Nazi labor camp. There, he formed a deep bond with a priest who guided him spiritually and academically. In 1950, his family immigrated to the United States, settling in Rochester, New York, where Michael graduated from Edison Technical High School.

He began his career in 1957 at R.T. French/Reckitt & Colman in Rochester. From 1960 to 1962, he served honorably in the U.S. Army as an E-4 Specialist. In 1966, he married Helen Anderson, and together they raised three daughters. In the early 1970s, the family moved to Springfield, Missouri, for his work. Known for his strong dedication and work ethic, Michael retired in 1998 without ever missing a day due to illness.

A lifelong soccer enthusiast, Michael helped found the Ukrainian-American Soccer Club and played on their 1956-1957 USSFA Amateur Cup Finalists team. He continued playing into his 50s, coached his daughter’s team for eight years, and led numerous high school and adult teams to championships in both Springfield and Rochester. His teams enjoyed many undefeated seasons, and he instilled in his players a love of the game, sportsmanship, and lasting camaraderie.

Michael was a devoted trustee of the Ukrainian Catholic Church of the Epiphany in Rochester, generously giving his time and labor to its upkeep even after moving away. He found joy in gardening, bird watching, swimming, and barbecuing chicken on grills he built himself. Above all, he was a man of deep faith and love for his family and friends. His home was always warm and welcoming, and no one ever left hungry. He taught those around him to release grudges, to value love and faith, and to work hard while cherishing life’s simple pleasures. He will be remembered fondly with every apple turnover and slice of apple pie.