James M Koster

James M. Koster, age 70, of Dyer, Indiana, peacefully graduated into Glory on Friday, October 24, 2014. A loving and devoted husband for almost 41 years to Mary (VanderMyde) Koster, he delighted in the blessings God gave him in their children Christine (Craig) Wories and Matthew (Heidi) Koster. His love only grew more so when he became a Papa to his precious grandchildren - Landon, Hudson, Laila, and Lydia. James was born on January 25, 1944, in Harvey, IL to Clarence & Marie (VanDerGiessen) Koster. He was raised and lived most of his life in South Holland, IL. He was the dear brother of Dennis (Jean) Koster, brother-in-law to Marty (Gloria) Housman, Fran (Bill) Cecil, and Margaret Pickering, and the loving uncle of many nieces and nephews. James proudly served his country from 1966-70 in the United States Air Force. He worked as a tax accountant for Henry Crown & Company, Chicago, IL, until he retired from there in 2002. James served on the Foundation Board of Calvin Christian School and Illiana Christian High School''s school board, while also volunteering his time at Harvest Thrift Store and in Calvin Christian School''s computer lab. James retained his sense of humor and spirit through the challenging times of his health struggles during the last two years. He bravely walked through his valleys with faith and joy, finding blessings along the way. James loved his Lord, his family, and his country. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends, but never forgotten. A private interment was held at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery with full military honors. James'' memorial service, to celebrate his life, is scheduled for Sunday, November 9, 2014 at 4:00 p.m. at the First Reformed Church, 15924 South Park Ave., South Holland, IL. with Rev. Matt Waterstone officiating.In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to Chicagoland Prison Outreach, Faith and Action, and Calvin Christian School. Arrangements entrusted to Smits Funeral Home - South Holland, IL. For further information, please contact 708-333-7000 or visit our online obituary and guest book at ww.SMITSFH.com