Obituary of Gary D. Koster

Gary D. Koster, 71, of Rome, passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday, November 18th, 2020. Born in Carthage on November 5, 1949, he was a son of the late William and Dorine (Barnhardt) Koster. He was a graduate of Carthage Central High School and Simmons School of Mortuary Science in Syracuse. On June 6, 1970, at St. Peter’s Church with Msgr. Edward Buttimer officiating, he was united in marriage to Agnes Fuller and together they shared a blessed union of over 50 years. Gary did his apprenticeship at Martin J. Nunn Funeral Home and later worked at Trainor Funeral Home in Boonville. He eventually went on to work at the Rome State School before retiring from Central New York Psychiatric Center in 2001. Post retirement Gary went to work at Birnie Bus Co. where he was affectionately known as “Doc”. If you asked him, this was one of the most fulfilling jobs he had ever held due to his love for children and seeing their smiles each day. Of course each one was certain he was the true Santa Clause and he played the part well…. Or maybe he really was??? He was a member of St. Mary’s/St. Peter’s Church, the Isaac Walton League, Rome Outboard Motor Club and 4th Ward Republican Committeeman. In addition, he was a longtime volunteer at the Fort Stanwix National Monument. Surviving besides his loving wife and absolutely best friend, Agnes, is a daughter and son-in-law, Megan and Ray Peck; a son and daughter-in-law, Jeremy and Heather Koster; a sister and brother-in-law, Cathy and Jack Wright - Sech; a brother and sister-in-law, Mark and Jackie Koster; a brother in law and wife Jim and Sharon Fuller; Sister in law Joan Fuller and five greatly loved grandchildren: Casey, Cameron, Sully, Emme, and Zachary (Areanna) who was there by his side to make sure he always had what he needed. In addition to the surviving are many friends, nieces, nephews, cousins and his side-kick Lilly. Gary was a lover of history, science, and nature. In his prime you could often find him outdoors with his family fishing in the swift waters of the Ausable or Salmon Rivers or walking a quiet trail somewhere in the New York North Country. He was quick to hold you captive with a story and he was a lover of people, never meeting a stranger. A tough, hardworking, honest, and thoughtful man he cared deeply about his family and their constant wellbeing, something they will never forget. The world will certainly miss Gary Koster who always gave more that he received. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Peter’s Church, 200 N. James St., Rome, on Monday, November 23rd at 11:00 a.m.. Interment will take place in Rome Cemetery. Family and friends are invited to call at Nunn and Harper Funeral Home, Inc., 418 N. George St., Rome, on Sunday from 2-5:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to the St. Peter’s Church Memorial Fund, 200 N. James St., Rome. Due to Covid-19 restrictions, a limited number of guests will be allowed to enter the funeral home at one time, everyone must wear a face covering upon entering and proper social distancing protocols must be adhered to once inside.