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Ronald Koes Obituary
AGE: 77 • Bridgewater
Ronald "Killer" Koes, Sr., 77, died on November 30th, 2014. He was born in Duryea, PA on August 6th, 1937 to his dear parents, Stella Madrak and Stanley Koes. Ronnie had a decorated football career starting at the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill where he earned a full scholarship. During his senior year, he was selected to the Collegiate All-American Team and was invited to play in the Hula Bowl, but previous committed to playing in the North vs. South Collegiate All-Star game. Ron was drafted in the 3rd round, 53rd pick overall, by the Detroit Lions in the 1959 NFL draft. He was then traded to the San Diego Chargers before continuing his football career with the Ottawa Rough Riders of the Canadian Football League. As the starting linebacker and center, Ron was fortunate enough to lead his team in winning the 1960 Grey Cup Championship. Ronnie was a Physical Education & Health teacher at Manville High School for over 35 years. He coached a variety of varsity sports and his passion for sports and children lead him to umpiring and refereeing. The Courier-News voted him "Man of the Year" for his philanthropic activities. Most notably, Ronnie started The M.I.K.E.S Fund, which was an organization that helped children with Cancer. He was a self-taught mason, piano player, and accordion player. Ronnie will always be remembered for his unique sense of humor; his kindness; how caring and generous he was; and will sadly be missed by all who knew him.
Ron and his wife, Bella, celebrated 58 years of marriage in August of 2014. Ronnie is survived by his wife, Philomena "Bella" Graziano Koes; his loving children, Ronald Koes, Jr. of Georgia, Karen (Jim) Swickle of Hillsborough, Lori (Ken) McCarthy of Phillipsburg, Lisa (Craig) Fischer of Milford, and Danette (Gary) Yakely of Lebanon; ten wonderful grandchildren, Sean (Debra), Alicia (Scott), Brett, Corey, Malorie, Lindsey, Cassie, Melanie, Stephanie, and Valerie; three great-grandchildren, Carter, Alyc, and Matt; and two great-grandchildren on the way. He was predeceased by his parents; and two twin brothers, John and Stanley Koes.
Viewing will be held on Thursday, December 4th, 2014 from 7:00 to 9:00 pm; Friday, December 5th, 2014 from 2:00 to 4:00 and 6:00 to 9:00 pm at the Bongiovi Funeral Home, 416 Bell Avenue, Raritan, NJ 08869, (908-725-1887). Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, December 6th, 2014 starting with a viewing from 10:00 to 11:00 am at the funeral home followed by a 12:00 pm Funeral Mass at Holy Trinity Church, 60 Maple Street, Bridgewater, NJ 08807.
In light of Ron's lifetime of philanthropy, his family would request memorial contributions to be made in his memory to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.
"Forever In Our Hearts"
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Memories and Condolences
for Ronald Koes
December 17, 2014
I was his #1, he always said to me that he loved me. I love you grandpa
December 8, 2014
A true friend that will be missed very much
Love Tom and Janet
Fred Puzio
December 8, 2014
My condolences to the entire Koes family. I had Mr. Koes as a gym teacher at MHS and he refereed many of our freshman/JV basketball games. Your Dad was a tough guy but tender-hearted. Everyone I knew respected him tremendously and we were in awe of his football accomplishments. We all enjoyed being around him and getting ribbed by him. He was one of a kind. May he RIP.
Kimberly & Christiana Resavy
December 6, 2014
Dear Bella, Karen, Lisa, Ronnie, Lori & Danette & families,
I remember cousin Ronnie as one of the kindest members of our family. Someone who always took time to notice & talk to the youngsters of the family, (as I was back then). Very funny & always someone I looked forward to seeing. We have a lot of memories while your Babciu was around to celebrate the holidays, always a good time! He will be fondly remembered and sorely missed. I hope to see all of you again very soon!
December 6, 2014
I love you daddy. I love you more.
Paula Giles
December 6, 2014
Dear Mrs Koes an family, I am very sorry to hear of Ron's passing. He was a great person an will be missed. My daughter had him as a teacher in Manville an I had the pleasure of working with him in ABIS School. Prayers are with all of you.
Joe Ahouse
December 6, 2014
RIP coach, you inspired a lot of athletes at MHS but none more than me. Thank you!
Michael Cappola
December 6, 2014
My sincere condolences to your entire family, Ron was a great man, a true friend and so wonderful with children, He will be sadly missed.
December 6, 2014
The toughest most kind hearted men I ever knew. RIP Thank you for all you did for me as a lost young man, you taught me all I know about sports and being competitive, you will be greatly missed. Lonnie Martin
Patty Tosco
December 6, 2014
Dear Ron Jr and Family, So sorry to hear about your dad's passing he was a great man who has touched so many lives in a positive way. My husband John had your dad as a teacher in the late 70's. Over the years he has talked about your dad often and told me many stories on how your dad helped him thru a difficult time in his life. May the memories you shared with him and the positive comments from the lives of others he touched get you thru this difficult time. Sincerely Patty Tosco Reed class of 80
Donna Marie Merola
December 5, 2014
Lisa and Family, my thoughts and prayers are with you all during this difficult time.
Joanne & Randy Heckman
December 5, 2014
Lisa & Family, We are so sorry to hear of the passing of your father. We didn't know him, but heard many stories about him from you Lisa. He sounds like he was an amazing man & Father. May he RIP. God Bless!
Anne and Rodney Jennings
December 5, 2014
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
Sue Gardinor
December 5, 2014
So sorry for your loss. Thoughts and prayers to all of you. Sue and Ross Gardinor
Michelle Plick
December 5, 2014
Thank you for sharing your father with the Manville family. He was great teacher and wonderful man. An example of inclusion and acceptance for us all to remember. May his love guide you through this time of sadness.
Leslie Jarrett Marvin
December 5, 2014
I am so sorry to hear about your Dad's passing. It is trully a loss for each of you. Your Dad was larger than life and will be missed by many people. My thoughts are with you all during this difficult time.
Bill Skibbee
December 5, 2014
Koes Family.I am so sorry to about your Dad. He was great man,great football coach and a great mentor.He definitely touched the hearts of many.He will be greatly missed.
Jeff McCarthy
December 5, 2014
TO THE KOES FAMILY,
Mr. Koes was a great friend, mentor and part of our family. He will be forever in our hearts. LOVE Jeff, Maureen, Kelly and Erin.
December 5, 2014
Dear Lis and family,
We am so sorry for your loss. We didn't know him but I can tell would have loved him. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all during this rough holiday season and always. XOXO Shell and Leroy
December 5, 2014
We never had the good fortune to meet Mr. Koes but after reading the description of the type of man he was, his spirit lives on through his son, Ron and his beautiful grand daughter, Cassie. Our love, thoughts, and prayers are with this very special family.
Ted, Terri, and Ian Kimbrell
Suwanee, GA
John Graziano
December 5, 2014
Dear Bella and family, Our sincere condolences to all of the Koes family. Not only was Ron a strong leader, a proven athlete, and a loving family man , he was also a great American. He will be missed. Gods blessings to the Koes family. Love, John and Debbie Graziano and family
Robert Vivalo
December 5, 2014
Dear Koes family. I knew Mr Koes in MHS where he coached football, PhysEd, and civil education courses. Even years after graduation if I passed through town where he lived and he was outside I would stop and say hello. Great man and I'm sure the best husband, father, granddad, and friend. He will be missed but his legacy will forever remain in our hearts. Rest in Peace Mr Koes.
Lorraine Abood - Mazalewski, MICP MHS class of '97
December 5, 2014
Dear Mrs. Koes & Family,
Mr Koes will always be one of my favorite people & one if the teachers I still talk about.. He was a big guy with an even bigger heart and those of us fortune enough to go through Manville schools will never forget this remarkable educator and role model. Bless your family,.respectfully,
December 5, 2014
I love you daddy. I love you more.
Mike Salerno
December 4, 2014
To Ron and your family,
I'm very sad to hear about your Dad. He was a great coach and always had interesting stories and was a funny guy to be around. It sounds like he lived a very interesting life and touched a lot of lives along the way. Be thankful for all of the great times you had with your Dad.
KAREN (LAPOTASKY)ASH
December 4, 2014
A wonderful man, teacher and friend to my family. You will be missed by everyone to touched during your wonderful life. Rest in Peace. Karen Lapotasky Ash
December 4, 2014
Our deepest sympathy to the Koes family. A teacher who will never be forgotten... He was a legend in his time. RIP Mr. Koes Dennis & Joan Kosensky
Leon Mortensen
December 4, 2014
My condolences to the family. Mr koes taught me what it means to be a man. He was an encourager to me. God bless your family.
December 4, 2014
I met Ron twice on visits to Ottawa and was so appreciative on the second visit that he decided on a whim to attend my stepdancing concert with Tom.
Ron's enthusiasm and energy that afternoon is cherished.
Thinking of you Bella xo
Susan
December 4, 2014
To my favorite cousin--always ready for a good time--will miss you. Our deepest sympathy to Bella and his wonderful family. He will never be forgotten.--Love, Pat (Koes) and Bill Keegan.
Larry B. Blumatte
December 4, 2014
Truly one of the best builder of young men I ever knew. Whenever my thoughts turn towards my High School days he is always center and remembered with great reverence. I wish his family my deepest condolences but I feel for those who never knew him. I will always hear him in my dreams saying, "Hey Bloomers, would you like to join us or what?" How I hated that then but how I would love to hear it from him one more time. Go getum Coach. Bruce Blumatte MHS class of 68
Leslie Shupin
December 4, 2014
I am so going to miss my favorite pen pal and Uncle! May your light in heaven shine as brightly, as the love you gave us all here on earth! xo
Fisher Family
December 4, 2014
Was always such a great guy!!!! Best teacher! Prayers and thoughts are with the family!
Dolores Holder
December 4, 2014
We have all lost someone whom was very special in our lives. RIP Mr. Koes. Sincere sympathy and prayers for your immediate family and extended family. You will be missed but not forgotten.
Debbie Provenzano-Evans & Ken Evans
December 4, 2014
Our condolences to all of the Koes family. Mr. Koes was a great man and will be sadly missed. May all memories shine on and may he rest in peace. God bless you all.
Tom and Teresa Spence
December 4, 2014
Dear Bella and family
If there was ever a man larger than the universe it indeed was Ron. Full of generosity and a joy for life he embodied every aspect of that. We will keep all the good memories of 55 years tucked away in our hearts forever
Love
Tom and Teresa Spence
Ottawa Canada
Whitey & Sandy Giovannucci
December 4, 2014
Dear Bella and family,
Our deepest condolences. Ronnie was a great friend and neighbor.
Donna DeBellas- Castronovo
December 4, 2014
Bella and family
Thank you so much for sharing Mr. Koes with all of us, his extended family. He taught many of students at Manville High School life lessons through his kindness and caring for others. He was a role model and he will be missed but never forgotten. Rest in peace Mr. Koes, your memory will live on in all of us who loved you.
Susan Cason Dempster
December 4, 2014
Mr. Koes.....Strong, kind, funny, encouraging ! Thank you , you will always be remembered fondly
Tommy Amato
December 4, 2014
Truly a big man with an equally big heart who left lasting memories & inspired so many who came thru his classes
Diane Nastri
December 4, 2014
To the Koes Family so sorry for your loss Mr Koes was a great person and a great teacher thru high school he will be missed
Diane Nastri
December 4, 2014
To the Koes Family so sorry for your loss Mr Koes was a great person and a great teacher thru high school he will be missed
Diane Nastri
December 4, 2014
Ron,
Sorry to hear about the passing of your dad.
David Forktus
Berni Stainner
December 4, 2014
Bella and Family,
I am so sorry to hear of Ron's passing, ou are in my thoughts and prayers.
Berni Stainner
Donna and Hank Glen
December 4, 2014
Bella and Family,
Please accept our sincere sympathy for the passing of Ronnie. We will always remember our good times at the Rogus's Holiday parties! Ronnie was one of a kind. A true gentle giant. Please take comfort in knowing that he is now at peace.
Love,
Donna and Hank
George Donati
December 4, 2014
How could anyone forget this man, especially when you had his class early in the day. Just to hear his booming voice as he came out of that gym office to start gym class, or to hear him throw that small kickball against the partition wall in the gym to start the dodgeball games? Or better yet to make the first guy that had to line up against the wall be one refusing to wear the proper gym socks! CLASSIC HOES Thanks for making me realize I could climb that ROPE ....Mr. Koes the world is a bit quieter but much sadder today you will be missed........Rest in Peace. George Donati Class of 75
Dave Phillips
December 4, 2014
Thanks for the memories. May you rest in peace. Truly a big man with a kind heart!
Peter Olsheski
December 3, 2014
Bella and Family, My sympathy to you and your loved ones, and may God help you during this most difficult time.
Greg Spence
December 3, 2014
Dear Bella and Family,
Please accept our deepest sympathies on the passing of Ronnie. As we all know, he was one of a kind. He was loved and admired by many, and he will always hold a special place in our hearts. He will be sorely missed. May you find peace and comfort in the legacy he leaves behind. Love always, Greg, Tina, Emily & Kayla Spence
Darlene Thomaszfski
December 3, 2014
Forever in Our Hearts and Always on Our Minds. Prayers to the Whole Family and All the Friends who knew Mr.Koes. R.I P my Friend.
Alysia Salter
December 3, 2014
Rest in peace Mr. Koes We all remember you from high school gym class.
Michelle Fuller (Kozyra)
December 3, 2014
My deepest sympathy to you and your family. He was my teacher in Manville High school. He will be missed.
John and Bobbi Lapotasky "Lapo"
December 3, 2014
God bless the Koss family during this time of great loss.To you Ron for the best of great times, your pranks, your laugh and most of all your friendship.
Carl and Karen Walp
December 3, 2014
My family sends our heartfelt condolences for your loss. My wife and I both have fond memories of his gym classes in Manville during the 1980s. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
December 3, 2014
You are all in our thoughts and prayers. Lori, I know how very special your father was to you. He will always be with you and your beautiful family.
Jim and Charlene Crann
David Doremus
December 3, 2014
Peace be with you Mr. Koes a wonderful teacher and an awsome friend. Pryers to all of the family in this grweat loss.
DIANE DUDASH-DYKES
December 3, 2014
My family is very sorry for you loss. Your Dad was great with us kids and had such a dynamic personality. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family at this difficult time.
Tina Lands
December 3, 2014
Our thoughts and prayers are with your family during this very sad time. You brought great joy and wellness to so many. You were one of the great teachers and coaches!!! You will be missed.
Art & Elsa Lisiandro
December 3, 2014
Our most sincere and heartfelt condolences. As a colleague at Manville High School, I found him to be one of the kindest and most generous
people I have ever known... Always there for those in their time of need... A true role model for his students.. His was a life truly well-lived..
Art & Elsa
December 3, 2014
This is truly a sad day,your Father was loved by many,there is many students from many classes,God Bless his loving man,and he rest in eternal peace
Kristi Pope
December 3, 2014
I cant begin to tell you all how sorry I am for your loss. Mr. Koes was a wonderful, kind hearted man. Because of him and a few others, I was able to make the trip from NJ to CO to the only doctor that could save my life when I was 10 years old. He was truly a great man and will live on forever in the hearts of all those that had the pleasure of knowing him. My condolences to the family
Kurt
December 3, 2014
Prayers to the family of such a strong, and inspirational man. He has touched so many of us in his lifetime, he will never be forgotten. Peace out chicken lips.....
Frank Janoski
December 3, 2014
My deepest sympathies. I have many very fond memories of Mr. Koes as my high school football coach. He was bigger than life and taught me more than just how to play football. He was a role model. He showed me what the "next level" was like - not just in sports but as a person. It is very sad to learn of his passing. Frank Janoski, Manville High School 1970
Sarah Herrell-Casey
December 3, 2014
Grief can be so hard during the holidays, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one this holiday season.
Melissa Rhodes (nee Lutak)
December 3, 2014
I was one of Mr. Koes' students in ABIS school in Manville back in the early 1990s. He made gym class a lot of fun. My condolences to his family on his passing.
Eldon Fox
December 2, 2014
Bella, and Family.
Please except my condolences on the passing of Ronnie, he was one special Man, I was proud to call him my friend, it was always a special time when you guys made your trips to Ottawa!! Keep the faith !!
Eldon Fox
Ottawa ON.
Jeff Spence
December 2, 2014
Dear Bella and Family :
Please accept my sincerest condolences on the passing of "my bigger than life" Ronnie. I cherish our time together here in Canada when you visited as well as our time spent in NJ. Ronnie has a special place in my heart; I loved him very much! xo
Jeff Spence
Ottawa
Canada
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