James Kosakoski

West Sand Lake - James (Jim) Joseph Kosakoski, 62, of Crestview Drive passed away on Sunday, October 2, 2016, at Ellis Hospital in Schenectady, N.Y. after a two year battle with pancreatic cancer. Born on May 4, 1954 at Brady Maternity Hospital in Albany, N.Y., Jim was the son of the late Peter J. Kosakoski and Mary (Brady) Kosakoski. He was predeceased by his youngest brother, Bernard Kosakoski and other dear relatives. Jim was the beloved husband of Nancy (Ellery) Kosakoski, brother to Bruce P. Kosakoski (Bernadette Browning), twin to Judith A. (Kosakoski) Brooks (Jeffrey Brooks), and uncle to Keith Kosakoski (Kimberly Chupa), Kraig D. Brooks, and Kelly M.E. Brooks. Brother in Law to Ann Ellery (Jim Suozzo), Elaine (Ellery) Nugent (John Nugent Sr.) and their children, Kristin Nugent, Meghan Nugent, Johnny Nugent, and Billy Nugent. Also survived by several members of his extended family. Jim was a graduate of St. John's Academy in 1972. He continued his education attending SUNY Alfred achieving an AAS degree in Data Processing, proceeding to SUNY Plattsburgh for a BA in Psychology and finalizing his academics at the College of St Rose with a MBA. Living most of his life in the Capital Region with the exception of attending the various colleges and initiating his professional career in the Great Barrington, MA area as a Director of Residential Services for Berkshire Meadows returning in the late 1980s as the Deputy Executive Director for Residential Services with the Center for Disability Services. Concluding his professional career recently as NYSACRA's Deputy Executive Director and Chief Financial Officer. Jim had many interests and activities; his passions were his work serving those with developmental disabilities and, in his free time, golf. Proud member of the Burden Lake Country Club and treasurer of his golf league. Jim's achievements include being a finalist of both the ESPN Two Man Best Ball Tournament in Las Vegas, NV and Two Man Best Ball for the USGC (United States Golf Challenge) in Orlando FL. He also had several hole-in-ones to his credit. Jim enjoyed playing at many golf courses up and down the east coast with all of his friends. Jim became active and involved in his interests. Jim was co-president of the SCC board on Martha's Vineyard. Jim also achieved his private pilot license and was a member of the USA Department of Transportation Federal Aviation Administration. Jim got a taste of the culinary arts while employed at L'Auberge Restaurant in Albany during his high school years and always enjoyed cooking for his family and friends. Jim always enjoyed a good party. Jim's family wishes to express thanks to Dr. Rana Jacob and staff at Upstate Hematology Oncology, the Rensselaer County VNA, and Ellis Hospital doctors and nurses that cared for him. Funeral will be from the W.J. Lyons Jr. Funeral Home 1700 Washington Avenue Rensselaer Friday morning October 7, 2016 at 9:00 and 10:00 at St. John the Evangelist and St. Joseph Church Herrick Street Rensselaer where the Liturgy of Christian Death and Burial will be offered. Relatives and friends are invited and may call on Thursday October 6, 2016 from 4-7 pm. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to a charity of one's choice.