West Harwich , MA – Walter Phillip Kosloski, 79, of West Harwich, Massachusetts, passed away on June 12, 2026 from complications of ALS.
Born on October 10, 1946, in Northampton, Walter was the eldest of eight children. He spent his childhood on his family dairy farm in Leverett and attended high school in Hadley, carrying throughout his life the values of hard work, perseverance, and community that defined his upbringing.
Walter proudly served his country in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War. His service was marked by courage, dedication, and sacrifice, earning him a Vietnam Service Medal adorned with two Bronze Stars. Though humble about his accomplishments, Walter carried the honor of his military service with quiet pride. He was honored to accompany his brother Stanley’s remains home after his death, both serving on the USS Whipporwill.
Following his military service, Walter spent many years as a storekeeper at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. He later worked as a barrel maker at Cape Cod Cooperage, practicing a traditional craft with remarkable skill. He loved to ask people if they knew what a cooper was. Walter also spent a number of years with Agway, where his knowledge, work ethic, and friendly demeanor earned the admiration of coworkers and customers alike.
In 1987, Walter married Cynthia (Daniels) Kosloski. Together they shared 39 years of marriage. In 1995, Walter and Cynthia settled on Cape Cod with their daughter Amanda, where they built a life rich in friendships and community involvement.
Walter enjoyed candlepin bowling, vegetable gardening, woodworking, and military history, especially the Civil War. Whether tending to a garden, creating something with his hands, or sharing his knowledge of history, he approached every interest with enthusiasm and curiosity. He especially enjoyed naps at 3, feeding the neighborhood pigeons, and picking out just the right plaid shirt.
A dedicated supporter of the arts, Walter was a founding member of the Harwich High School Friends of the Arts program, helping to foster and encourage artistic opportunities within the community he cherished, especially the local town bands. He was particularly proud to maintain the MMEA All State Music Festival participant plaque displayed in Monomoy Regional High School.
Walter was predeceased by his parents, Stanley and Angelina; his brother, Stanley Jr.; and his sisters, Susan and Dolores. He is survived by his beloved wife, Cynthia; his daughter, Amanda Kosloski; his son, Mark Kosloski; his grandchildren, Gary and Angelina; his stepson, Danny Burke, and his family; his siblings, Joyce, David, Stephen, and Barbara; as well as numerous nephews, nieces, extended family members, and dear friends who will forever cherish his memory.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to Harwich Fire Department Rescue Services, https://harwichfireassociation.com/donations/, or the Monomoy High School Friends of the Arts program, https://www.monomoyfriendsofthearts.org/.
A private burial will take place at Massachusetts National Cemetery in Bourne.
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