John Moczulski

On July 4, John J. Moczulski, 79, passed away peacefully at home in The Woodlands, Texas, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born on June 8, 1947, in Erie, Pennsylvania, John was the beloved son of Ziegfried and Mary Moczulski. Although he later made Texas his home, Erie was forever part of who he was. John was a proud graduate of Holy Trinity School and Cathedral Preparatory School, an institution he faithfully supported throughout his life by cheering on the Ramblers from hundreds of miles away. He continued his education at Gannon University and returned to Erie every year to visit the family, friends, and hometown he cherished. Our Lady of Peace Parish also remained an important part of his lifelong connection to Erie.

John served his country with honor as a Lieutenant in the United States Army Infantry. Following his military service, he began his career with the H.J. Heinz Company in Erie before building a successful career in industrial sales, ultimately working in the oil and gas industry in Texas. John had a rare gift for connecting with people. His warmth, humor, and authenticity transformed customers and colleagues into lifelong friends.

In 2001, John and Karen made the decision to leave Erie after Karen was presented with a wonderful career opportunity in Texas. Though it meant leaving the city he loved, John embraced the move because he believed it would create new opportunities for his family, especially for his daughter, Leah. It was a decision that reflected the quiet selflessness that defined so much of his life.

While John was proud of his career, he was even prouder of his family. For 39 years, he shared an extraordinary marriage with the love of his life, Karen. They met through mutual friends in Erie, where their story began and where they built a life grounded in love and laughter.

John was the vocally proud father of his only daughter, Leah Schultz. A natural "girl dad," he happily traded coaching little league games for pep talks before debate tournaments, law school exams, and eventually court appearances. He was endlessly supportive of every chapter of Leah's life. When she chose to attend Gonzaga University, he enthusiastically embraced a new passion, and one of their favorite traditions became cheering on Gonzaga basketball together.

John also found joy on the golf course, where he appreciated both the game and the friendships it fostered for both him and Karen. Music was another lifelong passion. His playlists moved easily from the Eagles, Journey, and Fleetwood Mac to Taylor Swift, Katy Perry, and Flo Rida, reflecting the youthful spirit that stayed with him throughout his life. To know John was to laugh. He possessed an unforgettable sense of humor and an extraordinary gift for making people howl with laughter. His wit was effortless, his timing impeccable, and family gatherings were always brighter because he was in the room. John never left anyone wondering what he thought; he always spoke exactly what was on his mind.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Karen Moczulski; his daughter, Leah Schultz; his brother, Donald Moczulski (Susan); his sister, Diane Krasinski (Mark); his loyal grand-dog Carlos, who always brought him a smile; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, dear friends, neighbors, and former colleagues whose lives were brighter because they knew him. He was preceded in death by his parents, Zigfred and Mary Moczulski.

Although his final months brought tremendous physical challenges, they also revealed the depth of love surrounding him. He spent his last days at home, cared for with extraordinary tenderness by his family, never without someone at his side, and never without love. John’s legacy is one of laughter, loyalty, and unconditional love. His family will think of him every time a basketball game tips off, football season begins, a favorite song comes on the radio, or a perfectly timed joke leaves a room in stitches. They take comfort in the promise that they will one day laugh with him again.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, July 16, 2026, from 3:00 pm until 5:00 pm at The Woodlands Country Club, Palmer Course, 100 Grand Fairway Dr. The Woodlands, Texas 77381, (281) 863-1400.

Please deliver all floral tributes directly to The Woodlands Country Club, July 16, 2026.