Steven Kooshkalis

Stephen Kooshkalis (Koosh), age 73 of Peabody, MA passed away on February 17th, in Summerville, South Carolina, surrounded by family. Steve was a talented athlete: a Peabody High School Hall of Famer, “Koosh” was a star pitcher, leading his team to the league championship in 1971. In his senior year, he was named Essex County “Player of the Year” and was selected by the Boston Globe for their scholastic All-State teams. He was drafted by the Boston Red Sox that same year. Steve didn’t play in the MLB, instead opting for college and committing his steaming fastball and crushing curve to the North Shore Baseball League for the next 15 years. According to Tom Grelish: “Kooshkalis was among the finest pitchers ever groomed in Peabody."

Steve and his family spent over 30 years in Groveland, MA. Shaped by memories of family, holidays together, cookouts and bonfires, grilling on the deck on sunny days, a garden full of tomatoes, and outings for concerts, and sports.

On warm summer nights, you could hear his favorite Yes melodies hanging in the night air.

Steve and Margaret were married for 46 years; they enjoyed traveling, eventually making their way down to South Carolina and settling into retirement in Summerville. Steve spent his final years surrounded by his seven grandchildren, all of whom will greatly miss their Papu.

Steve is remembered by his mother Jennie Kooshkalis, his wife Margaret his children Pamela Yavelak (Donnie Yavelak) Louie Kooshkalis (Betsy Kooshkalis) and his seven grandchildren; Stephen, Hayley, and Leila Kooshkalis, and Levi, Isaac, Owen, and Hayes Yavelak, and by his loving sister Deborah Mallia, niece Kristen and nephew Nicholas Mallia.

The family will be having a Celebration of Life in Steve’s honor in Gloucester MA on June 27th.

Please reach out to Margaret Kooshkalis or Pamela Yavelak for more information.