IN MEMORIAM: Cement Masons Local 527’s Andrew J. Kocot

Andrew J. Kocot, a member of Cement Masons Local 527, passed away on Jan. 2, 2020 in St. Louis, MO at age 95.

Brother Kocot worked as a cement mason most of his life, having started as a laborer in 1947. He worked on many projects over those years including most area shopping centers, many roads, sidewalks and commercial floors. “There were many times that the family would be at a shopping center that he would say we were walking on his floor,” said his daughter, Celeste Kocot said.

Brother Kocot proudly served on the Battleship South Dakota during World War II as a boiler tender. He was very active at St. Gabriel’s Church where he served as an usher, member of the Holy Name Society, as a fish fry worker and sang in the choir. Brother Kocot did many volunteer projects at the church during his retirement and supervised the construction of two homes for Habitat for Humanity.

Funeral Service were held Jan. 9, 2020 at Kutis Funeral Home, with internment at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery with honor guard and rifle salute.

Brother Kocot was married to his wife, Ruth, for 72 years. They were friends since the age of 9. She preceded him in death last August. He was also preceded by his son, Dennis, who passed away five years ago.

Brother Kocot is survived by his children, Alan, Beverly and Celeste, five grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.

Memorial contributions may be made to Habitat for Humanity, St. Louis office.