Kenneth Dale Koster

KOSTER - Kenneth Dale Koster, Sr., age 73, went to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, Monday, February 5, 2018, four years to the day after his beloved wife of 48 years, Suzanne Koster (Westra). He was also preceded in death by his grandson, Daniel Goodemoot; his parents, Peter and Anna Koster; his father-and mother-in-law, Irving and Mary Westra; his brothers, Nelvin (Irene) Koster and Robert Koster; and his brother-in-law, Johnny Westra.

Ken will be lovingly remembered by his children Kenneth Jr. and Lynnette Koster, Kim and Marie Koster, Renee and Jeremy Goodemoot; his grandchildren, Keri, Kaitlyn Koster, Kaleb, Abigail Goodemoot, Bonham, Cash, Jett Koster; his sibling, Clara (Evert) Reurink; sister-in-law, Chris (Mel) Kruizenga, his brother-in-law, Tom (Donna) Westra; and many nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.

Ken grew up in Byron Center and after high school, received his Bachelor's Degree from Western Michigan University. He started his teaching and coaching career at Caledonia Public Schools. He then returned to teach and coach in his hometown for 31 years. Ken was a wonderful contributor to the town of Byron Center. He worked as the Byron Center Recreation Director for 25 years, and currently served as Vice President of the Byron Center Historical Society. Ken was named a Byron Center Chamber of Commerce – Circle of Honor Award Winner in 2014. He was instrumental in the dream and development of Whistlestop Park and his retirement has been commemorated by a 4-field complex there, named Koster Fields. Ken was a 3-letter high school athlete and continued to play sports well into his adult years. Throughout his career, he intentionally mentored countless youth, shared his love for community and athletics; including the start-up of many youth and adult recreational programs. He will always be remembered as his grandkids’ Number One Fan, never to miss any event. Ken was devoted to his family, friends, and community; including his Friday morning breakfast group at Rainbow Grill. Most of all, he was committed to his faith in Christ and his church, where he loved to sing praise songs.

Visitation will be held from 4 to 7 PM Friday, February 9, 2018 at Cook Funeral Home in Byron Center, 2067 84th St. SW. Funeral services will be held 11 AM Saturday at Grand Rapids First – Prayer Chapel, 2100 44th St SW, in Wyoming. Pastor Larry French will officiate. Interment will be at Winchester Cemetery.

In honor of Ken, contributions may be made to Grand Rapids First – Youth Programs or Byron Center Historical Society. The family welcomes memories and messages in their guestbook online at www.cookcares.com.

To view the Keepsake Video please click on the link below.

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