Ronald Karl Koske

Ronald Karl Koske was, without a doubt, a man who lived life with boldness, a sense of humor, and a dedication to the finer things—like golf, cigars, and debating politics over a cup of coffee. If you were lucky enough to know him, you would have heard countless stories about his two holes-in-one, his days with Continental Airlines, his opinions on everything (and we mean everything), and, of course, his love for his family.

Ron was born on April 8, 1943, in Pennsylvania, but he didn’t let that keep him from making an impact far beyond the Keystone State. An Army Veteran, graphic artist, and, above all, a proud cat dad, Ron was a man of many layers. His unwavering loyalty to friends and family was a constant in his life. However, his loyalty to the game of golf, sailing, and the quality of a good cigar were equally sacred.

His impact wasn’t limited to just one place. He grew up in Lombard, Illinois, but his heart stretched across oceans—Germany, where he reconnected with long-lost family, and Italy, where history and heritage intertwined. His stories about those travels were almost as legendary as his political debates.

On February 12, 2025, Ron was embraced by his parents, Karl and Lillian (née Strecker) Koske, his sister Barbara, and, of course, his beloved fur babies, Mesha and Scupper—who are no doubt already keeping him company.

But his legacy doesn’t end there. It lives on in his children, Kevin (Kristen) Koske and Krista (Rob) Karov, and in the laughter of his cherished grandchildren, Kylie, Cody, Lauren, and Austin. It echoes in the memories of his nieces and nephews, Denise, Debbie, and Donnie—and it stretches from Lombard, IL to across the Atlantic and his extended family in Germany, the ones he sought out and embraced, weaving connections that distance could never erase.

It also lives on in the friendships he built over a lifetime. His golf buddies and cherished friend, J.J., will forever remember his kindness and quick wit. 

Rest easy, Dad. You’re now at the greatest course of them all, teeing off with a grin. Your cigar may be out, but your legacy will live on in every swing, every debate, and every cherished family moment, whether in Pennsylvania, Lombard, Germany, or anywhere a Koske carries your name forward.

A private ceremony was held in Southern California to honor Ron’s life.