Sue Ellen Kostry

Sue Ellen Kostry, age 80 of Mishawaka, passed away at the Center for Hospice, Raclin House, on September 2, 2022. Sue was born January 15, 1942 in South Bend, Indiana to the late John Charles and Ruth Alice (Lange) Kostry.

She was a graduate of St. Joseph High School class of 1959 where she was the seventh ranked student for all classes and honored with the Award of Merit for the “Outstanding Business Education Student of 1959." She also enjoyed bowling in leagues and playing Bridge.  Her high school accolades allowed Sue to obtain full scholarship to the University of St. Francis in Fort Wayne, Indiana where she obtained her bachelor’s degree in education in 1963. In her senior year of college, Sue was named among the “Who’s Who Among Students in American Universities and Colleges in 1962-1963.

Later, Sue completed her Master’s degree through Purdue University in 1968. While at Purdue, she earned her Reading Recovery certification.

Her dedication to her career as an educator began at Navarre School in South Bend from 1963-1969. Later, she taught in Virginia and New York before returning to her hometown to teach and mentor students at Hums Elementary School and Battell School in Mishawaka where she was honored as the Teacher of the Year in 1993 by the School City of Mishawaka.  She retired as an educator after 31 years of service to her students and colleagues.

In her spare time, Sue served twice as the President of Delta Kappa Gamma Educational Society and served tirelessly as the district treasurer for the Parent Teacher Association with her friends, reading, and taking trips across the US.  She also served several years as the secretary for the St. Joseph Valley Ski Club.  Most of all, Sue loved her family dearly.  Her selfless and caring nature will be remembered by the many students, colleagues, family and friends she made throughout the years.

Sue is survived by her brother John L. Kostry and his wife Janice of South Bend and her sister Marilyn Kostry of Granger, along with her nieces and nephews Alicia (Brian) Bottorff, John Charles (Jinny) Kostry, Neal (Abby) Kostry and Karen Miles.  Surviving as well are her great nieces and nephews Ben, Charlie, Sam, Zeke and Henry Bottorff, John Aiden Kostry, Luca Kostry and Jessica and Colleen Rivet.

Visitation will be held from 5-7 pm Thursday, September 15, 2022 at Goethals and Wells Funeral Home in Mishawaka, with the Rosary to follow at 7pm.  A Mass of Christian burial will take place at 10:30 am Friday, September 16, 2022 at Holy Cross Catholic Church, 1050 Wilbur St., South Bend, IN 46628.  Interment will follow in Highland Cemetery.

Sue’s family would like to thank the following people for the amazing care given to Sue during her time of need: Dr. Alice Lusk and her nurse Jodie, Dr. Paul Guentert, Dr. Doug Kolmodin and the entire staff at Hamilton Grove Assisted Living Center in New Carlisle, Indiana.  Your heartfelt concern for Sue will never be forgotten.

In her memory, donations may be made to the Center for Hospice or Holy Cross Church. To light a virtual candle, share a story of Sue’s life, or leave a message of comfort for her family, please follow the links provided on the tribute wall tab above.