Michael Francis Kokoski

Our dear son, brother, and uncle, Michael Kokoski, passed away suddenly on Saturday Oct. 6, 2018 at the age of 54 (born Nov. 20, 1963). The cause was most likely connected to complications from his diabetes.

Son of F. Frank Kokoski (deceased) and Mary (Fanning) Kokoski (86), Mike grew up in New City. Born with many developmental difficulties, he and his family worked hard to maximize his gifts. After going to New City Elementary/ St. Augustine School, he graduated from Clarkstown High School North with an 85% average. He was a hard worker, who after various jobs and even co-running a lawn care business, spent the last 30 years working as night custodian at Diplomat Health & Swim Club in Piedmont, NY.

Those of us who knew him best smile at his passion for music, comics, sci-fi/fantasy (esp. Godzilla), and professional wrestling. He had an artistic spirit and enjoyed drawing and writing his own stories. We will miss his bear hugs, always remembering his gentle soul and loving heart. He was a big kid at heart and, most importantly, he had a true childlike, unshakeable faith; we know he is enjoying the freedom of heaven, unimpeded by anything without or within.

His mother, Mary, said that he was a very loving son and wonderful companion whose hugs made her day. She cherished being his “sounding board”, someone who would listen and seek to understand him. She will miss those daily conversations the most, but now he is her perfect sounding board in heaven.

He also leaves behind sister, Theresa (Kokoski) Trella, her husband, Charles (Chuck) Trella, their children Monica (30), Christian (28), Justyn (26), Celine (24); and brother, John Kokoski, wife Bridget (Lorenzo) Kokoski, their children, Jordann (28), Chelsey (27), and David (22).

Visitation will take place at Michael J. Higgins Funeral Home in New City on Wed. Oct. 10 from 2-4 and 7-9. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place at St. Augustine Church in New City on Thurs. Oct. 11 at 10am.