Elizabeth (Betty) Koster passed away on December 28, 2023, after a long life of love and laughter. She faced many health issues in her final years with grace and courage. Finally, they tired her out, and she was ready to go home to the Lord.
Born in Vermont in 1932 to John and Althea (Way) Nevins, Betty was glad to end up in Brooklyn during her teen years. Here she thrived and met the man who became her husband, Edwin (Eddie) Koster. Although sad to leave the excitement of city life, together they ventured upstate to Albany to start their family. After spending many happy years as a stay-at-home mom, Betty entered New York State service, spending most of her career at the Department of Transportation.
After retirement, Betty was able to do some traveling; destinations included Israel, Croatia, Bosnia (Medjugorje) and Italy. However, her favorite destination was Florida because she was able to enjoy the company of family. Whether traveling or at home, Betty enjoyed a very eclectic musical playlist - from Bobby Darin to Elvis Presley to Billy Joel to the Beastie Boys. These she listened to until the late hours of the night.
Betty loved her family, friends, neighbors, and country. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her.
Betty is predeceased by her husband, Edwin Koster, and one child lost to miscarriage. Five siblings--Billy, Elsie, John (Jackie), Marie, and Evelyn--have predeceased her. She is survived by her children: Diana Koster-Kelly (Daniel Kelly) of Guilderland, NY; Vincent Koster (Marilyn Sanford) of Schenectady, NY; Robert (Karen) Koster of East Greenbush, NY. She is survived by four grandchildren: Nicholas, Anthony (Ashley), Ryan and Mara and two great-grandchildren: Kennedy and Payton. She is also survived by her brother, Daniel Nevins, and many beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins.
The family is grateful for the assistance and support offered by Bob, Cindy (and Candace); Dr. Denise Letteriello and staff; the Palliative Care Department of St. Peter's Health Partners and Community Hospice.
A mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, January 4, 2023 at 10:30am, followed by a meet-and-greet gathering with the family, at Christ the King Church, 20 Sumter Avenue, Albany, NY. Interment at the Westerlo Rural Cemetery will occur at a later date.
If you would like to make a gesture in Betty's memory, in lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Christ the King Church, Albany, NY.