Walter T. Kostrzewa Sr.

True to his Polish heritage, Walter had a strong spirit. He always appreciated good company and conversation, and, of course, a shot of vodka paired with a ‘Sto Lat’. He never passed up on the chance to play the lottery - always hoping the next ticket could be the lucky one. But in truth, as he often said, he had already won - in the family, friends, and his devoted wife, Theodosia, who surrounded him in his life.

Soccer was one of the great joys of his life. He loved playing the game and later coaching - sharing his knowledge and passion with younger generations. Both on and off the field, he was dedicated and spirited. He was known for his humor and quick wit - always making people laugh when they least expected it.

He also enjoyed traveling and experiencing life with no boundaries, embracing new places and memories that he would forever cherish. In one of his most impressive feats, he biked from Connecticut to Canada, proving that if he set his mind to something, there was no stopping him. Whether by bike, car, plane - he always found his way to a new adventure in style. Sporting a sharp pair of shoes and a watch that matched his personality, bold, classic, and unforgettable.

Later in life, after losing his eyesight, he faced the world differently. He handled it with grace. As he became more dependent on others, he developed a deeper appreciation for the people around him. The independence he once carried so confidently gave way to moments of vulnerability, and in these moments his gratitude for family became clearer than ever. He came to truly value the time spent together, the company, the conversations of past and present.

Walter Kostrzewa will be remembered for his strength, resilience, humor, stubbornness, and the countless memories he created. He leaves behind a legacy of stories that will be told, retold, and probably retold. His stories, will live on.

He will be deeply missed. Z żalem żegnamy.

Walter is survived by his cherished wife, Theodosia (Obieglo) Kostrzewa; his son, Walter T. Kostrzewa Jr. and his wife, Allison, of South Carolina; his daughter, Heidi Gartner and her husband, Anthony, of Wisconsin; his five adored grandchildren, Mykel and his wife, Tiffany; Kazia; Samantha and her husband, Luke; Savannah; and Christopher; and his cherished great-granddaughter, Kaylee. He is also survived by his two brothers, Steve Rzepeckie and his wife, Ginette, of Canada, and Jok Atkins of Canada.

Walter is predeceased by his parents Lucjan and Janina (Fijalkowski) Kostrzewa.

The family will hold a celebration of life honoring his memory at a later date. His family will be attending the regularly scheduled 7:30 AM mass on March 29th at St. Christopher’s in East Hartford, CT in his honor. All are welcome to join them in prayer. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Walter’s name to St. Jude’s Children Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105. The D’Esopo East Hartford Memorial Chapel, 30 Carter Street, East Hartford has been entrusted with the care of the arrangements. For on-line expressions of sympathy to the family, please visit www.desopeh.com