Tami Kay Koski

Tami Kay Koski, 55

June 11, 1970 – February 18, 2026

Tami Kay Koski, a woman of fierce independence, radiant charisma, and unyielding courage, passed away peacefully at her home in Phoenix, Arizona, on February 18, 2026 after a brave battle with ALS-a disease as cruel as it is unforgiving. To the very end, she lived life to the fullest, never losing her sense of humor even while quietly suffering as ALS took away her ability to eat, speak, and eventually breathe.

Born on June 11, 1970, in Golden Valley, Minnesota, Tami's upbringing was in the Twin Cities, with roots and stays with grandparents on the Iron Range. She was an alumna of the Academy of Holy Angels Catholic School (Class of 1988). She later carried her passion for equity to the University of St.Thomas, where she earned her B.A. in Social Justice which included a profound study abroad experience in South Africa. Until her end, she cared more about the suffering of humanity than she did her own suffering. Without a literal voice this past year, she took to collecting and wearing proudly the many T-shirts that expressed her views, wishes, and opinions on current affairs– often without subtlety.

Driven by a love for the horizon, Tami moved to Arizona when her daughter was 9 to pursue a life among the desert, sun, and mountains. Her 25 years in the Phoenix area was marked by a successful sales career in the hospitality industry. Her career was defined not just by achievement, but by the nurtured relationships with many clients. Her beautiful bright smile and impeccable sense of style made her the vibrant center of any room she entered and a favored sales representative by many.

Tami's church was found atop mountains, often with a Great Dane by her side (She raised and loved her gentle giant companions: Sage, then Luna, then Fiona, and lastly Mocha and Tuula). She loved hiking and found her peace exploring rugged trails, and hugging trees with an always inspiring awe of God's creation. As her illness progressed, Tami refused to let it dim her wanderlust. When she could no longer work, she purchased a pull-behind camper and with the help of her dear friend, Cindy Powers Trout, she crossed off visits to numerous National Parks, traveling between Arizona and Minnesota. Her beloved "cuz-sis", Karki (Karli), joined them in Montana for the remainder of the road trip which was marked by hours of Yacht Rock, George Straight, and Zach Top, to name only a few always on her playlists. She passionately loved music, especially country music and songs from her childhood and younger years which inspired endless reminiscing.

Tami spent her final summer in Minnesota, a place she always called home. She got to enjoy the lush green of the Minnesota summer, a few thunder storms, fireflies, starlit night skies and much quality time spent with dear friends and family. In addition to making many bucket-list trips happen for Tami, her "mama" was also by her side for the journey back to Arizona in early fall.

Having been a single parent, Tami grew her villages in Minnesota and Arizona, always surrounded by many friends she considered family. Tami's greatest achievement and proudest joy was being Jasmine's Mama and becoming Nonni to granddaughter "Beanie". She spent her final months at home, enjoying the comforts of routine life with her loves– daily trips to the dog park, watching MN Vikings football, binge watching shows, and lots of cuddles together with Jas, Beans, her Mama/Gigi, and the dogs. Tami arrived at peace with her fate but worried most about having to leave those she loved with her loss. She taught us to define "family" by deep, loyal love in many forms, how to live with Sisu, and how to leave with grace.

She is survived by her daughter, Jasmine Koski and her granddaughter Amani, who both carry Tami's strength, beauty, and spirit. She is further survived by her mother, Patricia Ossell and step-father Thomas Ossell; her father, Randy Koski (Jennifer Koski); step-brothers John Ossell (Andriena) and Mike Ossell; niece Shyanne Comella (Graham Corner); nephew Jayden Comella (Mary LeGarde); her beloved Great Danes, Mocha and Tuula; and Sheldon (the rescued tortoise). Many beloved aunts, uncles, and cousins, including those closest- Karli Koski, Kelly Ossell, Jami Kynard; and many beloved friends too numerous to list.

She was preceded in death by her sister, Jami Lynn Agudelo; Montroy Scott (Jasmine's father); her paternal and maternal grandparents.

We want to thank Dr. Ladha and her providers at Barrow Neurological Institute; ALZ AZ, and the amazing Hospice of the Valley team who were prepared to be with her until the end; and Greer Van Zanten with Messinger Pinnacle Peak Mortuary, and all who last cared for Tami & our family.

Service & Memorials TBD.

Suggested donations to be made in Tami's name can go to:

ALS Association to support ongoing research

ALS AZ

National Parks Conservation Association

National Park Service

To plant a tree in honor of Tami, visit Arbor Day Foundation.