Gladys (Janik) Kosztowniak

Gladys (Janik) Kosztowniak, 98 passed peacefully into heaven on Monday, September 14, 2026 at Niagara Hospice. Gladys was born on January 2, 1928 in Niagara Falls NY to Herman and Mary (Szewczyk) Janik. A graduate of Kelly business school, she began her career as a private secretary for a chemist at Olin Mathison in Niagara Falls, NY. Gladys and her family moved to North Tonawanda in 1958 and held several positions at DeGraff Memorial Hospital before retiring. Upon retiring, she spent her time enjoying family and friends, and volunteering at DeGraff Memorial Hospital and Our Lady of Częstochowa Church. Gladys had a deep faith and spent many years volunteering her services at Our Lady of Częstochowa Church. She was the office bookkeeper, Lector, Lay communicant, Ministered to the shut ins, Organized church trios, Was a parish trustee, Helped organize canal fest, But most importantly was instrumental in starting the bereavement program. She met with families and helped them plan the funeral service for their loved ones. It was ongoing until Covid. In her free time she enjoyed spending time with friends. They were her chosen family and she loved them all dearly. However, what she loved the most was spending time with her family. She especially loved her grandsons and enjoyed being with them and hearing about what they were doing. She was so proud of them. She also loved spending time in Geneva. Her favorite time was being there and helping out during peony season. She was predeceased by her husband, William Kosztowniak, son, David W. Kosztowniak, parents, and brothers Dr. Eugene Janik and Dr. Gerald Janik. Gladys is survived by her daughter Basia (Dale) Heinzman, daughter-in-law Barbara ( Menzel) Kosztowniak, Grandsons Andrew Heinzman, Eric Heinzman, William Kosztowniak, Peter Kosztowniak, and Michael Kosztowniak, Great grandson: Jack Heinzman, Godchild: Dr. Wanda Janik, and several nieces and nephews and many dear friends. No prior visitation. A mass will be held at Our Lady of Częstochowa Church, Oliver and Center Street, North Tonawanda, NY 14120 on Friday, September 18th at 11:30 AM. Entombment will follow immediately after. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Niagara Hospice. https://www.niagarahospice.org/donate/

Gladys (Janik) Kosztowniak

January 2, 1928 - September 14, 2026