Michael W. Kosiara, 70 of Valparaiso, IN, passed away Thursday, April 17, 2025. He was born December 1, 1954, in Chicago, IL, to the late Edward and Sylvia (Skiba) Kosiara. Michael graduated from Thornton Fractional South High School in Lansing, IL. He went on to a fulfilling career as a Transportation Professional and Executive with Combined Transport Systems. Michael was a member of St. Paul Catholic Church in Valparaiso, an avid golfer, and a dedicated fan of the Chicago White Sox. He loved baseball and stayed active as a coach for Thornton Fractional North High School for 10 years, and Calumet City Babe Ruth 16–18-year-olds for 12 years. He was also President of the Southeast Suburban Baseball League for 15 years, a volunteer and President of Calumet City Little League for 7 years, and an instructor and coach of Morris Baseball Club for 3 years. Outside of baseball, you could find Michael supporting his grandkids at their sporting events and extracurricular activities. He loved his family more than anything and always put them before himself. Michael will be remembered for his inquisitive nature and generosity towards others. He was a beloved husband, father, and grandfather who will be dearly missed.
On May 1, 1976, in Dolton, IL, Michael married the love of his life, Joan Sadowski, who survives, along with their children: Jacob (Laura) Kosiara of Cedar Lake, Matthew Kosiara of Valparaiso, Jason (Jillian) Kosiara of Valparaiso, and Megan (Steve) Laird of Valparaiso; grandchildren: Tatum (Braden) Bezdek, Alyssa Geer, Carter Kosiara, Brody Kosiara, Jackson Kosiara, Jake Kosiara, Blake Kosiara, Madelyn Kosiara, Miles Kosiara, Allie Kosiara, Grayson Laird, and Beckham Kosiara; 3 sisters and 1 brother; and many loving extended family members.
A memorial visitation will be held on Thursday, April 24, 2025, from 3:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at Moeller Funeral Home, 104 Roosevelt Rd., Valparaiso, with a memorial service beginning at 6:30 p.m.
GUESTBOOK
So sorry to hear of Michael’s passing. I remember many teenage days spent at the Kosiara home. Mike was always kind and funny and I’m sure his family will miss him very much. May your memories of Michael bring you peace. -Lori Szwet
I would like to express my sincere feeling of loss for his family. There was no greater a person here on earth. If he was your friend you had no better person standing by your side. This world is now missing a wonderful person. He is now sitting having a conversation with two of his very good friends watching over the rest of those they cared for. May he rest in peace. -Sharon E Payne
My deepest condolences to Mikes family on his passing. Mike was always involved with sports programs and coaching in Calumet City. I always liked his sense of humor and had many laughs over the years. -Ralph Spargo
Mike was a long time “Baseball Guy” who was involved for many years in coaching and administrating our great game. Mike was a part of youth baseball for all the right reasons. He was a very good friend of mine and many others who knew him. I kept in contact with Mike and recently spoke with him about a month ago. Truly a great husband, father, grandfather and person. He will be deeply missed. -Dave Sutkowski, Hammond Chiefs Baseball
I enjoyed every minute I played for coach Kosiara & still reflect upon the life lessons I learned during my summers playing for the Renegades. Coach Kosiara helped create some of the greatest memories I have playing baseball as a teenager. The environment he created for his teams was inclusive, welcoming & most importantly fun. RIP Coach. -Aaron Kowal (Renegade)
Joan and family my thoughts and prayers are with you all, sorry I am not able to be there to pay my respects. Prayers are with you all. -Aunt Audrey
Our relationship began when Mike joined our Company Combined Transport Systems, and it grew from a business relationship into a lifelong friendship based on mutual respect for one another. In business Mike was a tireless worker who left no stone unturned to better our Company. More importantly as a person, Mike left no stone unturned to help anyone in need, as he loved and respected his friends and associates. My life is better having had Mike Kosiara as a part of it. May you rest in peace and may your memory be eternal my friend. -Dennis Svilar
