Gregory Koser

Gregory "Greg" Lee Koser, 53, of Mansfield, died early Friday, February 12, 2010, at his home. He was born April 24, 1956 in Mansfield. A thoughtful and considerate gentleman, Greg loved being with and spending time with his family. He was a 1974 graduate of Malabar High School and received his Bachelor of Arts Degree in Education from The Ohio State University. During the 1970s, he sang with "Up with People" as they traveled through Europe. Affectionately known as "Mr. K." to his students, he was currently a teacher at Sherman Elementary School, where he had also substituted for a number of years. He had previously worked at many area restaurants, catering businesses and also was a bartender. Greg was a sports fanatic, always cheering on his OSU Buckeyes, Yankees and Steelers. He enjoyed gardening, cooking and all types of music. Greg collected Christmas Budweiser steins, Santa Claus memorabilia and nostalgic Norman Rockwell items. An avid reader, he enjoyed sharing with his students the adventures and information that reading can bring to someone.

Greg is survived by his loving parents, Jean Myers and Robert Carroll Koser, both of Mansfield; brothers, Alan Maria Koser and Todd Myers, both of Mansfield; sister, Cheryl Myers of Mansfield; two nephews, Christopher Sellards, stationed with the U.S. Army at Ft. Benning, GA and Tyler Ward of Mansfield; two nieces, Nicole Myers and Jessica Grassel, both of Mansfield; several special aunts, uncles, cousins and other relatives; many wonderful friends; and his students and faculty members at Sherman Elementary. He was preceded in death by paternal grandparents, Anna and Paul Koser and maternal grandparents, Richard and Elizabeth Holloway.

Friends may visit from 5-8 p.m., Tuesday, February 16, 2010 at the Diamond Street Home of Wappner Funeral Directors, 98 S. Diamond St., Mansfield. Funeral services, officiated by Dr. John D. Freeman, will be held in the funeral home Wednesday at 10:00 a.m. Burial will follow in Mansfield Memorial Park. Memorial contributions may be made in care of the family.