To the UWSP Paper Science and Chemical Engineering community,

It is with deep sadness that the UWSP Paper Science & Chemical Engineering Foundation and the Department of Paper Science & Engineering at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point share the passing of Dr. Michael J. Kocurek, a visionary educator, respected leader, and founding force behind our program.

Dr. Kocurek founded the Paper Science program at UWSP in 1970 and played a defining role in establishing the strong academic and industry-connected foundation that continues to distinguish the program today. His leadership, commitment to students, and dedication to advancing paper science education helped shape generations of professionals who have gone on to serve and lead across the pulp, paper, packaging, and allied industries.

In addition to founding the academic program, Dr. Kocurek was instrumental in the creation of the Paper Science & Chemical Engineering Foundation, helping build enduring support for student scholarships, academic excellence, and industry partnership. His vision extended well beyond the classroom, and his influence remains woven into the identity and success of UWSP's program.

Dr. Kocurek's contributions to the paper industry and to higher education were extraordinary. He was widely recognized as one of the most influential educators in the field, and his passion for teaching, mentoring, and professional development left a lasting impact on colleagues, alumni, students, and industry partners around the world.

We extend our heartfelt condolences to Dr. Kocurek's family, friends, former colleagues, students, and all those whose lives he touched. We are grateful for his legacy, and we honor the profound mark he left on UWSP and the broader paper science community.

His memory will continue to inspire the mission of this program for generations to come.

Obituary information can be found here:

https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/islandpacket/name/michael-kocurek-obituary?id=61569929&utm_source=webshareapi&utm_medium=share_button&utm_campaign=wsapimobile_beta

The family has requested in lieu of sending flowers please direct contributions towards the Kocurek Endowment. These can be made online on our website papersciencefoundation.org. Click here for donation page: Donate / Pledge Now and choose the "Kocurek Endowment" option.

Checks can be mailed to the Foundation office address below.

Please share this message with other alumni and others in the industry.

Thanks,

Don Guay - President

Leslie Petrie - VP/Treasurer

Kurt Mehlberg - Secretary

Matt Fischer - Past President

Ian Meinke - Incoming Member

Roland Gong - Dept. Chair

Rod Loucks - Executive Director

Paper Science and Chemical Engineering Foundation

D284 Science Building

2001 Fourth Avenue

Stevens Point, WI 54481