Koziol, Felix, 1900-1976

Felix Koziol (1900-1976) was a skiing enthusiast and researcher. He pioneered avalance prevention in the United States, developing a handbook for the United States Forest Service in the 1950s.

From the description of Felix Koziol papers, 1949-1974. (Brigham Young University). WorldCat record id: 223811287

Felix Koziol (1900-1976), U.S. Forest Serviceman and ski enthusiast.

Felix "Kozy" Clemens Koziol was born 17 November 1900 to Anton and Mary Segulka Koziol in Little Falls, Minnesota. He married Bernice Spring on 22 March 1824 in Kalispell, Montana. He obtained a degree in forestry from the University of Montana. He started his career at the Boise National Forest and also worked at the Weiser and Teton National Forests. He worked for the U.S. Forest Service for 42 years, 21 of which were spent at the Wasatch National Forest. While there he dealt with issues concerning forest uses such as recreation, timber, water, wildlife and grazing, many of which are shown in his materials in the collection. He retired 27 December 1964. After his retirement he served as the director of the Utah Parks and Recreation Division for four years.

In addition to his career in forestry, Koziol was also a ski enthusiast. In 1974 he was placed in the National Ski Hall of Fame for his work in ski development in Utah. His enthusiasm for skiing began in 1937 when he saw the first ski lift being built in Sun Valley. After that he continued to help establish ski areas in national forests. He also served on skiing and sports committees. Besides skiing committees he was also in groups such as Salt Lake City Chamber of Commerce, Rotary International, Governor’s Committee for Tourism, Salvation Army Board of Directors, and Great Salt Lake Boy Scout Council. He died on 4 August 1976 in his home in Bountiful, Utah.

From the guide to the Felix Koziol papers, circa 1920-1976, (L. Tom Perry Special Collections)