Republic- Gary G. Koski, age 84, longtime Republic resident, passed away on Wednesday February 18, 2026 at his home.

Gary was born in Ishpeming on February 18, 1942, son of the late George and Pearl (Long) Koski. He grew up in Republic and was a graduate of Republic High School with the class of 1960. Following graduation Gary worked in the iron ore mines, starting his career at the Republic Mine before moving to the Empire mine, accumulating 36 and a half years of service before his retirement. Gary married his late wife of 47 years, Sharon Bath on June 29, 1963. His only wish in life since her passing was to be reunited with Sharon.

Gary was a member of the Republic Twp. Fire Department where he put in 22 years of service including 2 years as Chief. He enjoyed playing in horseshoe leagues, the Ishpeming Cribbage league, going for rides on his side by side, planting tomatoes, hosting football Sundays where his family would join at his home to watch the Packers, Gary loved spending time with his family. Gary loved spending time at camp and would drop anything he was doing to go out there.

Gary is survived by 2 sons- Alan (Shelly) Koski, Clint (Tracy) Koski, 6 siblings- Dorothy (Wally) Warlin, Bonnie (Larry) Mattson, Beverly (Mike) Radcliffe, Glen (Lynn) Koski, Dawn (Jim) Beaupied, Kim (Donna Weimann) Koski, sister-in-law- Pat (Joe) Dumoulin, 7 grandchildren- Janice Knapp, Chris Koski, Brandie Koski, Beki Koski, Philip Koski, Elizabeth (Justin) Parr, Hannah (Ashley) Nylander, 4 great grandchildren- Amelia, Max, Aurora, Paelynn, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and his loving dog LeRoy. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife- Sharon, sister and brother-in-law- Darlene and Marvin Kopatz, son- Rory Koski, daughter-in-law- Barbara Koski, and grandson- Nathan Koski.

Gary’s family will greet relatives and friends on Saturday February 28, 2026 from 11:00am until 1:00pm at the Bjork and Zhulkie Funeral Home. A Memorial Service will follow at 1:00pm. Following the services, the family invites everyone to a reception at River Rock Lanes and Banquet Center.

Gary’s family wishes to affectionately conclude his obituary with a final “Thanks Dad”.

Gary’s obituary may also be viewed at bjorkandzhulkie.com where relatives and friends may leave a note of remembrance.