Eleanor M. Koska

Eleanor M. Koska, a woman whose life was defined by faith, family, and quiet devotion to others, passed peacefully on March 25, 2026, at the age of 96.

Born on February 1, 1930, to Antoinette (nee Kubacki) and John Przybylak Sr. in Buffalo, New York. Eleanor was raised in a close-knit family that instilled in her the values of hard work, compassion, and steadfast love. These qualities became the foundation of her life and the legacy she leaves behind.

Eleanor was the beloved wife of the late Alfred “Fritz” Koska, with whom she shared a lifetime of partnership and devotion. Together they built a home centered on faith, kindness, and unwavering support for one another. She was a devoted and loving mother to Jacquelyn (Joseph) Astyk, taking immense pride in her daughter’s life and accomplishments.

Her greatest joy was her family. She was a cherished grandmother to Julianne (Gregory) Duerr, Joel (Mary) Astyk, and Jordan Astyk. Known affectionately as “Gigi,” she delighted in the laughter and energy of her great-grandchildren—Ethan, Lucas, and Samuel Astyk—who brought light to her later years. Eleanor’s love was steady and unconditional, and her presence at family gatherings will be deeply missed.

She was the dear sister of Loretta (late Lucian) Benczkowski and predeceased by Geraldine (Benjamin) Schutta, Edward (Jean) Przybylak, Florence (Louis) Zybczynski, Alfrieda (Peter) Conwall, John (Delphine “Bea”) Przybylak Jr., Robert (Rose) Przybylak, and Mary Ann (Theodore) Pawlowski. Eleanor is also survived by many loving nieces, nephews, and cousins, each of whom held a special place in her heart.

Eleanor dedicated many years of service as a Teacher’s Aide at Immaculate Heart of Mary Children’s Home in Cheektowaga, NY. There, she offered patience, encouragement, and compassion to the children in her care. Her gentle spirit and nurturing nature made a lasting impact on countless young lives. She believed deeply in the dignity of every child and carried her work not just as a job, but as a calling.

A woman of strong Catholic faith, Eleanor lived her beliefs daily through acts of kindness, humility, and service. Her quiet strength, warm smile, and reassuring presence will be remembered by all who knew her.

Family will be present on Sunday, March 29th from 1–5 PM at the PIETSZAK FUNERAL HOME, 2400 William Street, near Harlem Road. 

Relatives and friends are invited to assemble for a Mass of Christian Burial at Queen of Martyrs Church, 180 George Urban Blvd., on Monday morning at 10 AM.  Please assemble at the Church.

Though she is reunited with her beloved Fritz and many dear family members, her memory remains a blessing to those she leaves behind. Eleanor’s life was a testament to enduring love, steadfast faith, and the simple, beautiful power of caring for others. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered. We invite you to honor her memory by sharing a picture in our online Photo Album or a favorite memory in our Guest Book on the Tribute page. Through these remembrances, her enduring spirit will continue to inspire and uplift us all.