Victor "Vic" S. Kodis, Jr., age 82, passed away peacefully on January 14, 2026, at Cooley Dickinson Hospital. Born on May 25, 1943, in Springfield, MA, Vic spent his formative years in Wilbraham before moving to Amherst, where he would eventually settle in Hadley for the past 50 years. Vic was proud to attend University of Massachusetts, where he not only pursued his education but also embraced his passion for rugby. His dedication to service led him to enlist in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War, a chapter of his life that instilled values of courage and commitment. He was predeceased by his Father Victor Kodis, Senior, and his Mother Bertha (Bertie) Kodis and a niece Jennifer Bronner. Professionally, Vic made significant contributions to the field of journalism as a writer and editor at the former Transcript Telegram in Holyoke, and he served for two decades as a Senior Editor at the Hartford Courant. After his retirement, Vic continued to nurture his passion for writing by working part-time at the Daily Hampshire Gazette. Vic’s interests extended beyond his professional life. He was an enthusiastic sailor, often embarking on adventures aboard his beloved 30-foot Cataline sailboat with his wife, Patricia R. (Marcotte) Kodis, to explore the Caribbean and the waters of Noank, CT. A lover of nature, Vic cultivated beautiful flower and water gardens at his home in Hadley, proudly participating in the Garden Tour of Hadley. He was also an ardent supporter of UMass sports, enjoyed golfing, and had a keen interest in white-water river rafting. Vic shared a special bond with his beloved dogs, Kooker, Miss Crackers, Carmie, and Peanut, who brought joy and companionship to his life. Vic was a beloved family man, cherished by his wife of 56 years, Patricia, and his extended family, in-laws Cathy Stewart and her husband Jim; Janet Pompilli and her partner Jeff Kapell. He is also survived by his brother Alan Kodis of Wilbraham, MA and his loving nieces and nephews: David Carpenter and his son Cade; Michael Narey, Beverly Narey, Michael J. Narey., Azalea Narey, and Grace Narey, currently residing in Tagum City, Philippines; Matthew Stewart, his wife Laura Bowley Stewart, and their daughter Cecilia, currently residing in Chandler, Arizona; Nathan H. Stewart and his son Parker Stewart, currently residing in South Hadley, Massachusetts, and Westboro, Massachusetts, respectively; and Rachel R. Narey and her son Gabriel Narey, currently residing in Hopkinsville, Kentucky.  

Vic also treasured longstanding relationships, especially with the Matras family of Chicopee, with whom he shared traditional Polish meals on special holidays. 

A visitation will be held on Saturday, January 31, from 10 AM to 12 PM, with a service commencing at 12 PM at the Beers & Story South Hadley Funeral Home. The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the Center for Extended Care in Amherst staff as well as the ICU staff and doctors at Cooley Dickinson Hospital.  For those wishing, donations may be made to the EMTs and paramedics at the Hadley Fire Department for their dedication and assistance through the years.