Richard James Koster

Richard (Rich) James Koster was born September 28, 1952 in Pendleton, OR and died April 14, 2025. Preceded in death by his parents, George and Regina Koster. He was child number five out of ten. He is survived by siblings- Jerry (Nancy), Terry (late wife Donna), Georgina (Steve), Garret (Ann), Robert (Anne), Doug (Shauna), George (Jackie), Mark (Michelle), and Michele (Tim) and over 30 nieces and nephews. He valued family more than anything and lit up every time the family would gather and share stories or have a good debate. In 1959, he moved to Oregon City and then to Silverton in 1969, where he graduated from Silverton High School in 1971. He didn’t love school, except math, but was a multi-sport athlete, which he said kept him engaged in school.

After high school, he got a job in landscaping. He met Mary (Winchcomb) Koster on a blind date in 1973 and they got married in 1974 on his birthday, September 28. He then started his own business, Koster’s Landscape Specialties- where he went on to complete many projects around Salem and beyond. Among those he was most proud of were- The Capitol Mall, especially the cherry trees that produce beautiful blossoms each year, The African Rainforest exhibit at the Oregon Zoo, and The Riverfront Park in Salem. He also loved to help his family and friends create their own beautiful spaces.

He is survived by his wife, Mary, two children- Amanda (Aaron) and Phillip. On September 28. 2024, Mary and Rich celebrated their 50th Wedding Anniversary. After his years of landscaping came to an end, his biggest joy was spending time with his grandkids- Carter, Owen, Adolyn, and Eliza. He was a huge encourager and supporter to them over the years- a cheerleader for them in life and all their activities. We are so thankful for all the memories we made over the years as a family.

We remember him as an avid Duck fan, great coach who had an impact on so many people, loyal friend, loving husband, dad, grandpa, devoted brother, brother in law, and uncle. He truly cared about all the people in his life. He enjoyed traveling over the years with Mary and many friends and family. He also loved to cook-everyone loved his blueberry pie and homemade raviolis- among many other things he would bbq, cook, and bake.

There will be a celebration of life on June 29, 2025 at Pringle Community Hall from 1:00-4:00pm.