Steve Koscinski

Steve Koscinski, of Crystal Lake, passed away peacefully surrounded by his wife and children after a courageous fight with ALS on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, at the age of 56. He was born June 22, 1969, in Chicago.

Proudly choosing a life of sobriety in 2015, Steve found purpose and belonging in the Jiu-Jitsu community at Team Curran. Team Curran and so many people he met there quickly became a source of strength, support, friendship and family. He loved this lifestyle and the many people he met so much that his son, Tommy, started training there just before his sixth birthday and continues to train to this day. Steve also volunteered his time at Team Curran to help staff and the kids’ class prior to his diagnosis.

After his ALS diagnosis in August of 2020, he continued to train Jiu-Jitsu, attending classes 5-6 days a week for as long as he was physically able. Once he was no longer able to get on the mat, he would still attend classes with Tommy to take pictures, talk with his friends and meet new students. Team Curran was a second home for him where he found comfort and support as his condition declined.

Beyond Steve’s more than ten years of practicing Jiu-Jitsu, he especially loved the ocean, the beaches in Florida, traveling up north to Minocqua and Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. He also was an avid fisherman. He enjoyed fishing in the lakes and rivers of Wisconsin with friends and family.

Steve was also a very passionate fan of the Los Angeles Chargers, dating back to his childhood. He traveled to many stadiums with family and friends, creating many special memories.

Steve was the loving and devoted husband of Megaen for 29 years; proud father of Jesselyn Victoria, Shannon Mary and Thomas Cyril Koscinski; deeply loved son of Cyril and Mary (Prondzinski) Koscinski; beloved brother of Renee (Kevin) Burnquist; and cherished uncle to Baily and Jacob Burnquist.

Although we lost Steve, ALS did not win. Steve took control of his life at the end and did things his way and we expected nothing less. Steve won.

A memorial gathering and celebration of life is currently being planned.

Donations in Steve’s memory can be made to a charity and cause close to his heart, protecting the world’s oceans via Oceana at www.oceana.org