Gayle M. Kozak

September 17, 1957 - January 8, 2022

Gayle M. Kozak, 64, of Bethlehem Township, passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, January 8, 2022. Born on September 17, 1957, she was a daughter of the late Norman and Gloria (Vaughn) Matson. A graduate of Freedom High School’s Class of 1975, Gayle went on to attend 5H Acres Riding Academy in Cortland, New York, where she graduated in 1977. Gayle became very successful in the Apaloosa horse industry as an instructor, trainer, and judge. Her students obtained numerous national and world championships in the Apaloosa horse industry. Gayle judged the prestigious national and world Apaloosa shows, in addition to judging an Apaloosa horse show in France. She was well-respected in the Apaloosa horse club, having received Trainer of the Year in 2015. She is preceded in death by her parents, Norman and Gloria Matson. Gayle will be lovingly remembered by her husband: Gary M. Kozak; sister: Melissa Lemoi; nephew: Mark Lemoi; and her beloved dog, Maverick. Services will be held at a future date in the spring. Arrangements are under the care of the Connell Funeral Home, Inc., 245 East Broad Street, Bethlehem.