Koster, Albert John “A.J.”, 70, passed away peacefully surrounded by family and friends on August 24, 2022. A.J., as everyone knew him, grew up in Beloit, Kansas and attended St. John’s Catholic School where he excelled in sports, especially track. One of his greatest honors was giving the commencement address for the 1986 St. John’s graduating class. After college at Wichita State and Emporia State, A.J. devoted his life to the children of Valley Center for 34 years as a teacher and elementary principal. Everyone knew “Mr. Koster” and always waved when they saw him driving down the street in his tan 1964 Chevy pickup.
As a classroom teacher, A.J. joined KNEA and the local chapter of that teacher’s association where he was a member of the negotiation team for many years. When he became an elementary principal, he was a member of KAESP, the state’s association.
His faith was central in A.J.’s life and at his parish of St. Jude he was a Lector for many years, often not needing a microphone because of his booming voice. He had been a CCD teacher for high school students, finding he loved helping older students just as much as his younger elementary ones. Upon his retirement, he found great satisfaction helping others at the Food Pantry. He was also a member of the St. John’s Knights of Columbus at his home parish in Beloit, Kansas.
Throughout his life, AJ was most happy when around family, his “kids” at school, and being outdoors, whether he was putting up hay, cutting wood, or driving his tractor.
He is survived by his wife of 47 years Barb; siblings, Jeanne(Jerry) Sommerfeld of Hesston, Ks., Joanne(Don) Brown of Simpson, Ks., and Harry(Linda) Koster of Shawnee, Ks and a brother-in-law who was always “his brother” Brian(Nina) Schmitz of Beloit, Ks. A.J. and Barb were blessed with 17 nieces and nephews and loved being a part of their lives. Great-nieces and nephews have followed and likewise hold a special place in their hearts.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Francis and Margie Jo(DeBey) Koster and a sister, Janelle(Marty) Hansen.
Rosary will be at 7:00 PM on Wednesday, August 31, 2022 at St. Jude Catholic Church, Wichita, Kansas followed by visitation at 7:30 PM. Funeral Mass will be held at 10:30 AM on Thursday, September 1, 2022 also at St. Jude Catholic Church. The funeral service will be live streamed and viewed on the parish website, stjudewichita.org. Graveside will be held at the St. John’s Cemetery in Beloit, Kansas at 3:00 PM on September 1, 2022 with visitation at 3:30 PM at the Beloit Knights of Columbus Hall.
In lieu of flowers, memorials have been established with From The Ground Up, an organization that offers assistance to children in need in USD 262, and The Alzheimer’s Association. Donations to From The Ground Up can be mailed to PO Box 31, Valley Center, Ks. 67147
Heartfelt appreciation is extended to the staffs of Chisholm Place and Good Shepherd Hospice for their compassionate and loving care of A.J.
Condolences can be left for the family at www.bakerfhvc.com.