Gerald Coscarelly

Born in Coldwater, Michigan on August 10, 1935, Gerald Coscarelly, grew up in an Italian family that owned and operated “The Bluebird” Confectionery. He often worked at “the store” making ice cream or candy and serving customers when he wasn’t in school at St. Charles Borromeo, where he played basketball all through high school. Attending Eastern Michigan University to study Education, he met the love of his life, Barbara Coscarelly, whom he married in 1959. He obtained his masters degree and began his teaching career in Adrian, where he taught Physical Education. In 1960, he continued to teach (PE and 5th grade) in Wyandotte until he became the principal at Garfield Elementary in 1965, where he guided children, teachers, and parents for 25 years until his retirement in 1990. The Garfield School Playground is named in his honor. In addition, he served as the chief negotiator for the school board for a time. Gerald and Barbara raised a family of five children, embraced their children’s spouses, and enjoyed their eleven grandchildren. His family meant the world to him and his life revolved around providing for them physically, spiritually and emotionally. Jerry and Barb celebrated 61 years of marriage in June. An avid golfer, Jerry enjoyed music, poker, gardening, photography, and eating spaghetti and meatballs. You may have heard him whistle, laugh, share a pun, or sing in church. People will always remember Jerry for his cheerful disposition, kindness and strong faith. Jerry is survived by his wife Barbara, children Timothy (Teresa) Coscarelly, Catherine (Craig) Zardus, Craig (Sue) Coscarelly, Susan (Dennis) Gallogly, Daniel (Christina) Coscarelly; grandchildren Stephanie (Collin) Adler, Nicholas Coscarelly, Brian Zardus, Christina Zardus, Adriana Zardus, Curtis (Marisa) Coscarelly, Kyle Coscarelly, Jacob Coscarelly, Aidan Gallogly, Owen Gallogly, Jonah Coscarelly; sisters Phyllis & Geraldine Coscarelly; and several nieces and nephews. Jerry was proceeded in death by his parents, Joseph & Ermelinda Coscarelly and brothers, Peter & Herbert Coscarelly. Memorial contributions to honor Jerry’s life may be made to St.Timothy Catholic Church.