Obituary of James Ernest Kostrzewa

James Ernest Kostrzewa (Kostrava)
February 22, 2025 — Age 71

James Ernest Kostrzewa (Kostrava) was called to heaven on February 22, 2025, at the age of 71.

Born on June 29, 1953 to Ernest ("Bab") and Genevieve Kostrzewa, Jim was the youngest of four brothers, joining siblings Mike, Marty, and Paul. Raised on Sunnyknoll Avenue in Berkley, Michigan, Jim was the first in his family to attend college, earning a B.A. in Advertising and Marketing from Michigan State University in 1978. 

Jim lived by the philosophy, “Bloom where you are planted,” and his optimism and gratitude were contagious. He had an innate ability to enjoy life to its fullest and brought joy to everyone around him. He was known for his brilliance, honesty, intellectual depth, artistic creativity, and comedic wit. With a strong personality, Jim was always there for his loved ones — whether you needed advice, an honest opinion, or just a listening ear.

His home was a reflection of his passions, filled with art, music, and the sounds of his masterful guitar and piano playing. Jim's own artwork adorned the walls, from impressionistic landscapes to sailboats painted on bathymetric maps. He had a special love for all things nautical, from lighthouses to ship's wheel coffee tables.

In 1998, Jim fulfilled his lifelong dream of living on a lake when he moved to Sanford Lake, MI, a place he called, “A little slice of heaven.” There, he enjoyed the peaceful surroundings and spent the remainder of his days in contentment.

Jim is survived by his two loving children, Jimmy Kostrzewa of Bozeman, MT, and Kelly Kostrzewa of Midland, MI. They were his pride and joy in life. 

A memorial service is being planned with details to follow. We are grateful that Jim did not suffer for long and passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, free from pain.  

“Yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, today is a gift. That’s why we call it ‘the present.’” — E. Roosevelt.

We appreciate the outpouring of love and support during this time. Don’t forget to tell someone you love them today.  To sign online guestbook, visit www.hyattewald.com Arrangements made with the Hyatt Ewald Funeral Home.

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