John Gay Leroy Koster

It is with both heavy hearts and joyful memories that we celebrate the life of John Gay Leroy Koster, who passed away on January 1, 2025, at the age of 84. Born on January 22, 1940, at Bartlesville Memorial Hospital, John lived a life filled with laughter, love, and an unwavering spirit that touched everyone fortunate enough to know him.

On April 1, 1963, John married the love of his life, Barbara Rau, in a beautiful ceremony at Copan Methodist Church. Together, they shared 61 wonderful years of marriage, creating a beautiful family and a lifetime of cherished memories.

John was a fun-loving individual who thrived on having a good time. He could always be found on the dance floor, bringing joy to social gatherings with his dancing and love of Corona. Although he was a man of few words, John was thoughtful and deliberate with his words. When he did speak, his words were impactful, leaving a lasting impression on those around him. He showed his love through meaningful gift-giving, often presenting cherished heirlooms that held significant sentimental value to those who received them. 

John dedicated his professional life to the electrical industry, initially working as an electrician before becoming a plant manager at Reda Pump, where he served from 1973 to 2007. His dedication to his work and his unwavering commitment to excellence earned him the respect and admiration of his colleagues.

His treasured accomplishments began after graduating from high school in 1958 when he joined the Navy, serving four years on the USS James C. Owen destroyer, where he gained invaluable experience as an electrician.

Deeply committed to his community, John served as President of the 30th Sportsman Club, leading the project to restock area lakes with fish that the organization raised. He also organized Water Board District 7 in Copan, serving on the board of the 55+ activity center, The Elks Board, and the Tri-County Tech board. While also being a 50-year Mason. 

John had a wide variety of hobbies and interests that showcased his many talents. He shared his love of the outdoors through hunting, fishing, and caring for wildlife. An accomplished painter, he crafted his frames to showcase his artwork. He loved capturing memories through photography and videography, ensuring that moments with family and friends would be cherished forever. Additionally, he enjoyed the thrill of scuba diving and water skiing.

Some of John’s favorite memories included beach vacations with his family, where he couldn't leave the resort without everyone knowing his name "Papa John." He cherished times spent sharing his love of the "land" and playing water volleyball in his pool, sharing drinks with friends and family which created lasting memories.

Beyond his professional and civic endeavors, John was known for his aggressive "backpat" hugs. He was very knowledgeable and loved teaching and sharing that knowledge, inspiring others with his passion and expertise. Friends and family will forever remember his ornery smile and the countless moments shared together. While his grandkids will forever keep their hands off the walls. 

John is survived by his beloved spouse, Barbara Koster; daughter Tonya Koster and husband Marty Truitt; son John "Butch" Koster and wife Shelley Koster; grandchildren CJ Johnson, Callie Bauman, Brady Koster, and Brittany Dunn; and great-grandchildren Dawsyn Dunn, John-John Dunn, Baker Dunn, Gunner Bauman, Anslee Bauman, Keaton Koster, Kova Koster, Kollyns Koster, Lyla Johnson, and Braylon Johnson. Sisters: Jane Koster, Donna Schafer, and Debbie Jack. 

In celebration of his life, family and friends are invited to a gathering on January 5th at 2:00 PM at Butch and Shelley Koster's house, located at 9611 N. 3990 RD, Dewey, OK 74029. Together, we will share stories and laughter of the memories John left us with. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Tri County Technology Center Foundation at the following link https://donate.stripe.com/14kgok18W5SycW47t5. Services have been entrusted to Arnold Moore & Neekamp Funeral Home and Cremation Service. To send an online condolence, visit www.honoringmemoriesbartlesville.com. 

Rest in peace, John Gay Leroy Koster. Your memory will live through all of us.