Gwen Ellen Kosi

The eldest of seven children, to John Harold and Mary Phair. She was raised in International Falls, MN. She attended school in International Falls before continuing her education at Misericordia School of Nursing, Winnipeg, Manitoba, CA. From an early age, she demonstrated a caring spirit that would shape her life’s work, ultimately pursuing a career in nursing at the Veterans Hospital, Chicago IL, Queens Hospital Honolulu, HI and UCLA in California, where she dedicated herself to helping others. She had a piolet license and flew a Cessna Model 150 C from Santa Monica Airport.

She married Ray Kosi, in 1965. Together, they built a life filled with partnership, and shared experiences. They made their home in Southern California, living in Newport Beach and Costa Mesa.

She was a devoted mother to her children, Monica who preceded her in passing and Frank. She is survived by her husband Ray and her son Frank, who brought her immense pride and joy.

She also cherished her dogs, Bentley, and Tucker, her beloved companion, who brought warmth and happiness to her daily life.

Gwen’s greatest passion was deep-sea fishing. She spent countless memorable days fishing alongside her son Frank, traveling both locally and internationally. They fished in Alaska, Canada, Mexico, Panama and Long Rang Fishing trips from San Diego. Gwen and Frank spent Christmas in Panama at the Tropic Star Lodge Pina Bay. This yearly trip through the jungle, multiple flights & hotels, catching Black Marlin, Blue Marlin, Sailfish, Tuna and Mahi-Mahi created adventure, experiences and memories that will last forever. One of the highlights of her fishing adventures was landing an extraordinary 620-pound Blue Marlin off the island of Mauritius in the Indian Ocean—an achievement she treasured. She fished locally out of Dana Point and San Diego with her friends at the Dana Wharf Lady Anglers. She had a deep love for tennis, which she enjoyed for many years.

In more recent years, she found joy in playing bridge, participating both in local games and regional tournaments including “Bridge Cruises” often spending meaningful time with her sisters Iris and Janet.

She will be remembered for her strength, warmth, adventurous spirit, and unwavering love for her family. Her legacy lives on in the lives she touched and the memories she created.

A Memorial Service will be held at Pacific View Memorial Park, 3500 Pacific View Drive, Corona Del Mar, CA 92625, US, on April 16, 2026, from 10:00 am