Tess Kost

Tess Kost of Union passed away on September 19, 2020. She was 95. Theodosia Szulyk was born to Peter and Josephine Szulyk in New York City, New York in 1925. She joined her older sister and best friend Genevieve (Jane). Tess, as she was called in school, graduated high school in Newark where she was selected to be a member of The National Honor Society. After graduation she began her secretarial career with IBM at their Newark, NJ office. She met her future husband George Kost at a dance. George and Tess were married in 1953. They moved to Irvington, NJ where they raised their two daughters Judith Mary and Eileen Lourdes. As George and his brother Frank managed their liquor store, the family became active members of St. Leo Roman Catholic Parish, attending school and volunteering in Parish activities. Tess was a Rosarian, a member of the Parish women’s bowling league, class mother, PTA volunteer, and was a committed worker for the Parish’s afternoon Bingo. The family moved to Union in 1979 and joined Holy Spirit Roman Catholic Parish. Not only did Tess join the Rosary Society, she again became a committed Monday afternoon Bingo volunteer. Tess was a loving daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Tess was preceded in death by her father Peter, her mother Josephine, her husband George and her sister Jane. She is survived by her daughter Judy and husband Jim Ryan, and her daughter Eileen and husband Dan Sebor. Her grandchildren include Jimmy and wife Mercedes Ryan, George Ryan, Chelsea Ryan, David Sebor, Matthew Sebor and fiancé Samantha Faulks, Garrett Sebor, and Brandon Sebor. Tess’ great-granddaughters, Antoinette and Anastasia Ryan brought her love and joy. Tess loved her family and enjoyed spending time with them.

Her family honors her amazing life. Tess put everybody ahead of herself. She focused on helping others and loving her family. She valued education and an honest work ethic. We are forever grateful for all she has brought into our lives.

Due to Covid-19 restrictions, the family will hold a private Mass at Holy Spirit Roman Catholic Church and graveside service at Gate of Heaven Cemetery where Tess will be laid to rest next to her husband, her parents and her sister. The family requests that no flowers be sent.