Ralph Gregory Kosko

Ralph Gregory Kosko Greg ended his struggle with cancer at home on Wednesday, February 25, 2015. Ralph was passionate about his cooking- Ralphs Kitchen as his family called it, was always open, and in addition, made numerous baking contributions to the Moss in the Valley Chapter, and he gladly shared his recipes. He enjoyed cutting and splitting wood and he was a perfectionist when it came to his carpentry and renovations to his family home. His natural competitiveness led to being known affectionately as chess master and putt-putt king. He supported his family no matter how harsh the times may have seemed. He was there through thick and thin with a laugh and a smile. He is our hero. He was a huge supporter of the Hidden Valley Band Boosters and served concessions at the local football games, no matter the weather. Regardless of what he had going on, he would put his day on hold in order to help others get through their day. His contagious sense of humor could brighten anyones day no matter the circumstances. He was an avid outdoorsman, supporting his sons aspirations as he earned his Eagle Scout rank and became the Virginia State Champion for competitive archery. He was a dedicated employee of Yokohama Tire Corporation for 16 years, and a proud member of the United Steelworkers Union, local 1023 and SOAR. He was preceded in death by his mother, Kathleen Kosko Bowling; and survived by his loving wife of 29 years, Alice Yvonne Kosko; his father, John Kosko; his son, Evan; his two sisters, Susan Evans (Richard) and Rhonda Kosko; and faithful companion, Ellie. The family would like to thank his special friends, the Marsh and Spence families. They would also like to thank Dr. Matthew Skelton, the nurses of Blue Ridge Cancer Care, and Carilion Hospice Care, especially Alan Maybury, RN and Cindy Brand, RN. The family will receive friends Friday, February 27, 2015 from 5 until 8 p.m. at John M. Oakey & Son Funeral Home in Salem. Funeral services to honor Gregs life will be conducted at 2 p.m. Saturday, February 28, 2015 at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, 5836 Cotton Hill Road, Roanoke, VA. Interment will be private. Arrangements by John M. Oakey and Son, Salem, 540-389-5441. An online guestbook is available by visiting www.johnmoakey.com.Visitation

Friday, February 27th, 2015 5:00pm - 8:00pm,

John M. Oakey & Son Funeral Home

305 Roanoke Boulevard Salem, Virginia 24153

Service Information

Saturday, February 28th, 2015 2:00pm,

Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints

5836 Cotton Hill Road Roanoke, VA 24018

Interment Location

Franklin Memorial Park

Address Not Available Rocky Mount, VA