Michael Kocurek

Dr. Michael J. Kocurek passed away on May 26, 2026, surrounded by his family and under the care of hospice. Founder of the Paper Science Department at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point in 1970 and Professor Emeritus of Paper Science and Engineering at North Carolina State University, Michael was one of the world’s most recognized educators in the pulp and paper industry. …Michael received his B.S., M.S., and Ph.D. degrees in Chemical Engineering with a specialization in Paper Science and Engineering at the SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry and at Syracuse University. During his illustrious career, Michael taught over 6,500 industry operators and professionals across more than 200 paper mills and 50 organizations. …His honors include TAPPI Fellow, TAPPI Distinguished Service Award, TAPPI Paper and Board Division Technical Achievement Award, and induction into the prestigious and exclusive Paper Industry International Hall of Fame. …Michael’s full obituary can be found at Legacy