Jacqueline Kostich Obituary

My beloved spouse Jacqueline Marie Kostich left this earth and took her light into another room on Tuesday, May 20, 2025. She was born to Phyllis Christine and Anthony Kostich on December 5, 1951. On March 7, 1981 she married Loryjean (nee Medved), and for 44 years shared a most remarkable love story. Jacqui has been my rock, my love, my teacher, my inspiration and my protector.

She was the wonderful father of seven, Michelle Kostich, Adam Kostich, Sgt. Benjamin Kostich, James Kostich, Jr., Samual Kostich, Bethany Kostich and Graeme Kostich.

Her six delightful grandchildren brought her endless joy - Gabby, Oliver, Donovan, Nico, Rowan and LaylaBenny.

She was preceded in death by her father Anthony and sons Samuel and SGT Benjamin Kostich.

She leaves behind a host of friends and relatives to cherish her memory.

Jacqui spent her entire career in the tropical fish industry and was widely considered an expert on topics aquatic. She published articles in several national magazines. She had a special passion for the unique killifish and was a proud member of the Wisconsin Area Killifish Organization since 1968, where she nurtured those loyal friendships throughout her life. She and her daugher Bethany bred, raised and sold award-winning killifish.

Her greatest pleasure in the last several years was her involvement at the West Allis Senior Center.She was an avid and ever-patient teacher of sheepshead, chess, pinochle and billiards. She made so many friends and special connections there. In particular, she shared a deep connection with her friend, Lynn.

She lived a life of humble service, never denying a request for help. Jacqui was always kind. She was honest, considerate and put others' needs ahead of her own. She was ever the optimist, seeking out every person's good side. She was a mender of fences, an encourager and a non-judgmental friend. She forgave readily and did not harbor grudges. She stood always ready to help someone in need. She was a giver and a humble servant.

Yet, she was, hands-down, the smartest person I have ever known. She was a fashion maven who brought panache, sass and class everywhere she went. She was fiercely loyal and devoted to the people she loved. Her children remember her as a woman with a heart of gold and the most brilliant and loving person in their lives. "I will miss your presence, your smile, your laugh, your kindness and advice when I struggled." "Nothing seems like enough to write about, the outpouring of people who sat with her shows wonderfully she lived and how many people she inspired, challenged to be better and loved unconditionally. Her bravery, calmness and reliability are traits I will forever try to live up to and all I can hope for is that she is at peace and even better if her and Ben are in a loving embraces or at least making jokes about us." "The price of love is grief. My dad was worth every drop of love we could give and then some. The price is steep, but it was worth every penny."

Fly free, sweet angel mine. Wait for me. There will be no funeral service. Cremation is planned. The family plans a remembrance of Jacqui's life at Veterans' Park in West Allis on August 15th, 2025 at 4:00pm. We hope you will come and share your stories and memories with us. There will be a balloon release in her honor.