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:
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