Stephen "Steve" Kosinski

KOSINSKI, Steve, 90, of Valley Cottage, NY, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, March 17th, 2021. Predeceased by his loving wife, Millie (married for 55 years). Devoted father of daughters Stephanie and Andrea, loving grandfather of Lauren, Brett, Casey & Ryan, and caring father in law to Andrew and Tom. He will be missed by all, as he was an amazing husband, father, grandfather, and father in law.

Born in Bronx, NY, he lived in Valley Cottage, NY for many years. Steve was a master carpenter for the New York City Housing Authority.

Steve was born to Polish immigrant parents. The household already had 5 sisters, Steve was the youngest, and the only male. That’s where he probably learned his respect for all women, and his unending patience that he would carry through his lifetime.

During his school years, he learned his trade of carpentry, which would later make him a master carpenter. As a teenager, he met Millie, while playing marbles in the Bronx with his best friend Chic. Millie would become his partner for life. Their love lasted over 55 years, until she died, and continued with him for the balance of his life. Steve worked hard, earning for his family, doing any jobs that came his way. He built their house in the Bronx, and welcomed Stephanie & Andrea there.

In 1966, they bought a lovely home in Rockland County. That home was filled with love too- ultimately welcoming 4 grandchildren; Lauren, Brett, Casey & Ryan. He adored them, and the love they had for their “Pops” was unending. Steve enjoyed the beach, at Jones beach with family and friends on summer weekends, spending many Summers with his young family in Nantucket; and then later in Long Beach Island with the children & the grandkids. He would bring a large piece of wood to the beach, and whittle away until he created a masterpiece duck or bird, that would then grace the homes of the ones he loved. He was a true artist.

He loved all things nature-knew all about birds, fish, plants and gardening. His daughters Stephanie & Andrea had many long and wonderful discussions with him about their gardens, especially during quarantine. They learned so much from him about their vegetable and flower plantings and were delighted when he said the raised garden bed was “the best present he ever got”!

Steve was somewhat of a renaissance man, interested in all crafts such as painting, pottery, copper enameling and macramé. He even built a potter’s wheel for his daughters when they were kids. He was recycling plastics and newspapers before it was politically correct. He smiled throughout his life; he knew he led a blessed life. He is now reunited with his soulmate Millie, and all their friends. He is looking down on us, smiling.

Services are being held privately by the family. In lieu of flowers, if you would like to make a donation, please make it in Steve’s name to the ASPCA. Steve’s daughters, Stephanie and Andrea are happy to share custody of his beloved doxie, Penny.