Andy Kosco 1941-2025

Andy was born on Oct. 5, 1941, the third child to his late parents, Andrew Kosco III and Philomena Rotz Kosco in Struthers, where he was raised and attended Struthers High School.

Andy met the love of his life, Cathy Huzicko, in eighth grade! Together, they built a beautiful life and shared 63 years of marriage.

Growing up, Andy excelled in sports and showcased his talents during high school, playing varsity baseball, football and basketball. He received 44 football scholarships, including offers from Michigan State and Ohio State, and 27 basketball scholarships.

At the age of 17, Andy chose to sign with the Detroit Tigers. He debuted in the major leagues with the Minnesota Twins on Aug. 13, 1965, at age 23. He played 10 seasons in Major League Baseball, from 1965 to 1974, most notably for the Yankees, Dodgers and Reds.

Andy enjoyed telling stories about his baseball days. One of his most memorable and well-known stories is when he replaced Mickey Mantle at first base in Mantle’s final major league game in 1968 at Fenway Park in Boston. This is documented in Mickey Mantle’s book.

Andy was a dedicated and generous father to his five children, and he cherished every minute with his 12 grandchildren. “Papa” showed his devotion by attending hundreds of sporting and school events, taking great pride in the accomplishments of his children and grandchildren. He was a positive influence in their lives, often sharing his wisdom and great advice. Andy had a gift for making people laugh, especially his grandchildren, and had the most witty and clever sense of humor. He was also creative and full of ideas. Andy loved being around his family and friends.

After retiring from baseball in 1975, he returned to his hometown and started his next career with Goulish-Kosco Insurance, where he later became the owner and successfully grew the business with multiple offices in Struthers and Boardman. While working, he earned a bachelor’s degree from Youngstown State University. He often shared how his experience at YSU, and the people he met there made a positive impact on his life.

Andy was an avid golfer, competing in countless local tournaments, as well as tournaments across the U.S. with the Major League Baseball Players Alumni. He especially looked forward to spending the winter months in Florida golfing and hosting fun visits with his family.

Andy remained closely connected to baseball throughout his life, maintaining relationships with his former teammates. Over the years, baseball fans continued to reach out to him, and Andy treasured the letters they wrote. He was an extraordinary man who accomplished so much in his life, both professionally and personally. He modeled love, traditional values and hard work. Widely known throughout Struthers and the Youngstown community, Andy was admired for his achievements and for the person he was.

He leaves behind his beloved wife, Cathy; his five grateful children, Ranee Mannion and her husband, Martin, Cheryl Kaltenback and her husband, Jerry, Dru Kosco and his wife, Nicole, Bryn Kosco and his wife, Dianne, and Kerry Shannon and her husband, Dan; his brother, William “Bill” Kosco; and sister, Patricia “Penny” Yovich. Andy’s grandchildren were the joy of his life and “Papa” will be greatly missed by them — Gabriell, Rachel, Andrew, Connor, Cole, Nolan, Chloe, Brady, Brooklyn, Bryan, Connor and Colten — along with many nieces and nephews.

Andy was preceded in death by his brother, Robert “Bob” Kosco.

Visitation will take place 3 to 6 p.m. Friday, Jan. 2, 2026, at the Fox Funeral Home, 4700 Market St., Youngstown, OH 44512.

A Mass of Christian Burial for Andy Kosco will be 11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 3, 2026, at Holy Family Church, 2729 Center Road, Poland, OH 44514.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Edward J. Fox & Sons Funeral Home, 4700 Market St., Boardman. Family and friends of Andy may visit www.foxfuneralhome.org to view this obituary and to give condolences to the Kosco family.

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