John Francis Kostka

John Francis Kostka, 90, lifelong resident of Rockford, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, April 3, 2018, surrounded by his loving family, listening to James Galway’s “Irish Eyes Are Smiling” and songs by The Clancy Brothers. Born in Rockford on September 27, 1927, to Walter M. and Dorothy E. Kennedy Kostka. John attended St. Thomas High School and West High. He skipped a grade and graduated with honors. John joined the Marines and proudly served his country during World War II. He graduated from Northern Illinois University with a B.S. in Physics and Math. John was married 61 years to “the love of his life,” the former Joan Mickey of Belvidere. John worked for Barber Colman and Textron. While working for Textron as an Engineer, he was credited with revolutionizing the fastening system of railroad freight cars. John was very charitable in his donations to the poor. He enjoyed family gatherings, trading stocks, gardening, attending church, listening to Irish music, reading and crossword puzzles.
Survived by his daughters, Mary Kay (Charles) Thorne of Rockford; Maureen (Timothy) Kelley of Barrington, Illinois and Patricia Kostka of Milwaukee, Wisconsin; grandchildren, Brian S. Kostka, Austin T. Kelley and Kiara A. Kelley. Predeceased by his wife, Joan, son, John R. Kostka and brother, James Kostka. The family wishes to thank Carrie, Kathy and Joyce for the great care given to John. Special thanks to Jennifer “Semper Fi” R.N. with OSF Home Health and OSF Hospice for the compassionate care our father received during the last days of his life.
Funeral mass will be at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, April 9, 2018 at Holy Family Catholic Church. Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. until 10:45 a.m. on Monday at the church. Burial in Calvary Catholic Cemetery. Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, Riverside Chapel, assisted the family. To express online condolences, please visit: www.fitzgeraldfh.com.