Vincent J. Kosakowski, Jr., 70, of Worcester, passed away on Monday, November 7, 2016 at Holden Nursing and Rehabilitation Center. His was predeceased by his loving wife, Christine R. (Bruso) Kosakowski (2003), and their daughter, Kimberly D. Gambaccini (2011).

Vincent is survived by his best friend and son, Vincent R. Kosakowski; a beautiful granddaughter, Christina D. Gambaccini; and a sister, Dorothy Degon, all of Worcester. He is also survived by his brother in law, Rev. Robert D. Bruso, of Leominster; nieces, nephews, and cousins, including Peter Balcius of Arizona, Richard Balcius of Worcester, and Kenneth Chicky also of Worcester, who were not only cousins, but more like brothers to Vincent. He was born in Worcester, son of the late Vincent J. and Eva (Swedis), and has lived here all his life.

He graduated from Worcester’s South High School in 1965, after having been an all-star athlete, earning several City and State championships and titles. He attended Western Connecticut State University, where he played football, and later graduated from Assumption College and served in the United States Army and Army Reserves. Vincent had a long successful career with New England Power, now National Grid, spanning fifty years. He began working as a young man and learned about different positions within the power company, finally becoming a corporate accountant. Upon his retirement and not being one to simply be quiet and relaxed, he returned to National Grid as a consultant for many years, allowing him to keep his mind keen.

He was a member of Our Lady of Czestochowa Church and Saint George Church, both in Worcester. His life was devoted to his family and to his faith; a faith that helped sustain him through times of trial and grief. He enjoyed sports, especially the New England Patriots, “The wonder of it all”, and bowling. He was a man with a big heart and would help anyone at any time, no matter what they needed.

Vincent will be remembered as a great husband, father, grandfather and friend, of which he had many. He was, as someone said…The Nicest Man!!!

Calling Hours will be held on Thursday, November 10, from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m. in MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation Street, Worcester. His Funeral will be held on Friday, November 11, from the funeral home, departing in procession at 9:40 a.m. for a 10 a.m. Mass at Saint George Church, 38 Brattle Street, Worcester, with his brother in law, Rev. Robert D. Bruso, presiding. Interment in Worcester County Memorial Park, Paxton, will be held privately.

In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to the Christina Gambaccini Education Fund, in care of Central One Federal Credit Union, 63 Southbridge Street, Auburn, MA 01501.