Obituary of Joseph W. Kosalek

Joseph "Joe" William Kosalek Age 82, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family on October 11, 2025 after a yearlong battle with cancer. Joe was born on December 15, 1942, in Binghamton, NY, the son of the late Joseph and Edna (Kerth). A proud U.S. Army Veteran, Joe graduated from Binghamton Northside High School in 1961 and earned an engineering degree from Clarkson University. He began his career as a Production and Manufacturing Engineer at Bendix in Elmira Heights and later enjoyed a long tenure at Pall Corporation in Cortland, where he retired in 2005. Joe is lovingly remembered by his son and daughter-in-law, Todd and Elizabeth (Lowery) Kosalek of Horseheads, NY; his dear friend and companion, Jackie Carpenter of Painted Post, NY, with whom he resided; his sister, Magdalyn Cross of Binghamton, NY Carrie Dinardo and Stephen Cross. Also, his former spouse and friend, Nancy Reimsnyder Kosalek of Horseheads, NY. In addition to his parents, Joe was predeceased by his longtime companion, Martha "Marty" Sullivan of Erin and his niece, Deborah Foster (Cross) Joe was deeply committed to his community through his many years of service to Horseheads Babe Ruth Baseball. In addition to coaching his son's team he also served as League President. His leadership extended beyond the local level, as he also served as the Western New York Assistant District III Commissioner. In retirement, he cherished frequent trips to the casino—where he was known to win more often than not. He spent many peaceful hours fishing on Keuka Lake and never missed a chance to cheer on his favorite teams. Joe was an avid fan of Syracuse University basketball, Penn State football, the New York Yankees, and especially his beloved New York Giants. Family and friends are invited to call at Barber Funeral Home, 413 S. Main Street, Horseheads, NY, Friday, October 17, 2025 from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Mary Our Mother Church 816 West Broad Street Horseheads, NY on Saturday, October 18th at 10:00 am with Rev. Christopher Linsler as Celebrant. Following the Mass, Joe will be honored with Military Honors accorded him by the Chemung County Veterans Honor Guard. Private interment will take place at Woodlawn National Cemetery and the convenience of his family. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Camp Good Days & Special Times 643 W. Lake Road Branchport, NY 14418 so children fighting cancer can enjoy Keuka Lake as he had. Barber Funeral Home is assisting the Kosalek family.