James Kosub

James Leon Kosub, affectionately known as “Jim,” was born in San Antonio, Texas, to Tony Leon Kosub and Mary Graschel Kosub. He passed peacefully on January 25, 2026, in Katy, Texas, at the age of 93. Jim is survived by his beloved wife, Doris Mae Kosub of Katy, Texas and their four children: Kenneth Charles Kosub and wife Tammy of Katy, Texas; Dennis James Kosub and wife Jen of Spring, Texas; Ann Marie Archer and husband Scott of Friendswood, Texas; and Karen K. Raitz and husband Brad of Coppell, Texas. He is also survived by nine grandchildren and three great-grandchildren, all of whom were an immense source of pride and joy in his life. Jim graduated from the University of Texas at Austin in 1957 with a degree in petroleum engineering. He went on to build a long and respected 33-year career as a petroleum engineer with Texaco, retiring in 1990. His work ethic, intelligence, and quiet dedication defined his professional life. On August 10, 1963, Jim married the love of his life, Doris Mae Jaeschke. Their love story was one of Jim’s favorites to tell. After dating Doris for just two weeks, he proposed to her at White Rock Lake in Dallas … without a ring. The very next day, he took her to a jewelry store so she could choose her own engagement ring, marking the beginning of a lifetime filled with devotion, partnership, laughter, and love. Unbeknownst to him at the time, his granddaughter, Ashley would one day be proposed to at that very same spot at White Rock Lake, 59 years later. Jim’s years raising his family were filled with tradition, adventure, and meaningful moments. Many Thanksgivings were spent at the deer lease, followed by making deer sausage alongside his father and children … memories that became cherished family stories. The Kosub family shared countless summer vacations at Lake Sam Rayburn, traveling together in their camper. Days were spent fishing, swimming, playing games, and fending off curious raccoons in search of food … simple moments that grew into lifelong family memories. During his career with Texaco, Jim and his family lived in Ecuador for several years, an experience he deeply treasured. While there, the family made numerous trips to the Equator monument. After retirement, Jim and Doris embraced life to the fullest, traveling the world together and enjoying more than 35 cruises, visiting over 80 countries and 47 US states. They also made two trips to Poland to connect with their ancestral roots and meet living relatives. A devoted Catholic, Jim held his faith close and treasured time with his family above all else. During the last 20 years of his life, Jim especially cherished living on Lake Conroe, where days were often spent boating and fishing with his children and grandchildren. Jim was known for his many talents and passions: a legendary margarita maker, an enthusiastic follower of the stock market, and a proud BBQ pitmaster. He was also a dedicated football fan, faithfully cheering on all his children’s and grandchildren’s college teams. One unique and unforgettable moment in history that Jim often shared took place on November 23, 1963. While working in downtown Dallas, he stepped away from his office to watch President elect John F. Kennedy and First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy pass by in the motorcade. Jim waved as they drove past, never imagining what would follow. As he walked back to his office, he heard people along the sidewalks crying and screaming. When someone told him that Kennedy had been shot, Jim replied that it couldn’t be true, because he had just seen him alive and waving to the crowd moments earlier. Just one month before his passing, Jim fulfilled a dream by publishing his first book at the age of 93 titled, Seven Large White Geese and One Lonely Gray Duck on Their Way to the County Fair. The accomplishment was a testament to his perseverance. Jim’s life was defined by faith, family, love, and quiet accomplishments. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by those who were blessed to know and love him.