John J. Kojis

After graduating from high school, John attended the University of Wisconsin and was graduated in 1942 with a degree in Mechanical Engineering. During WWII, he worked at GE in Erie, PA on the gunnery system for the B-29 Flying Fortress. The system allowed one gunner to aim and fire multiple turrets against a single target, thus limiting the number of airmen in harm’s way. While working in Erie he met the love of his life, Patricia; they were married in 1945. They moved to Chicago where John worked at S&C Electric Company for 6 years where he developed five patents related to electrical switching equipment. The cheap and efficient circuit breaker he developed is still in use today on power poles all over the world. In 1952, John and family moved to Minnesota where he worked for Maico Hearing Aids for 24 years, 16 years as its president. John was active in community and business associations, activities he enjoyed very much. He wanted to express his deep appreciation for the contributions of his friends and associates made to his happy and rewarding life.