Eugene R. Kostek

Eugene R. Kostek, 76, of Florence, passed away Sunday July 13, 2025, at Baystate Medical Center surrounded by his family. He was born in Northampton on December 26, 1948, to the late Joseph and Mary (Sadlowski) Kostek. Gene graduated from Hopkins Academy in 1966. He furthered his education, receiving a bachelor's degree in business administration from Husson University in Maine and later a master's degree in Finance from Western New England University. Over his career he worked for Coca-Cola, Stanely Home Products, Stop and Shop, Red Rose Tea and finally for Brooks Brothers as a system analyst before retiring in 2017. In the fall of 1972 he married Christine Pasek, together they raised their three sons in Florence. Growing up on the family farm in Hadley, Gene gained the skills and knowledge of growing tobacco and vegetables, and after settling in Florence, kept a vegetable garden every year since. He was a member of the Hampshire YMCA for over 50 years, where he exercised religiously. He spent many years as a runner, often seen jogging around Childs Park. He also enjoyed golf, downhill skiing, and fishing. He was a devoted Red Sox fan, taking his boys to Fenway Park every year for decades, a supporter of UMass sports, as well as fan of Michigan football. His strongest role(s) however were those of being a dedicated husband, father, and grandfather. He is survived by his devoted wife of 53 years, Christine (Pasek) Kostek of Florence, his children, Matthew Kostek of Northampton, Jonathan Kostek and his wife Jennifer Margolis of Hatfield, and Andrew Kostek and his wife Caryn of Granby. Additionally, his three grandchildren, Colton, Sophia, and Jonathan "JJ" Eugene Jr., his sister Marion Waskiewicz of Hadley, and several nieces and nephews. Besides his parents, he was predeceased by his brothers, Joseph and his twin brother Richard, and his brother-in-law, Richard Waskiewicz. Calling hours will be Thursday July 24, 2025, from 9AM – 11 AM at the DROZDAL FUNERAL HOME OF NORTHAMPTON. A prayer service will begin at 11 AM in the Funeral Home followed by burial in Holy Rosary Cemetery in Hadley. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to Kestrel Land Trust, 37 Bay Rd., Amherst, MA 01002 to help preserve farms, forests, and riverways, or to Hampshire Regional YMCA, 286 Prospect St., Northampton, MA 01060. For more information or to leave the family a personal condolence, please visit Drozdalfuneralhome.com