Shawn Kostrzewski

Shawn Kostrzewski, 49, of Thief River Falls, formerly of Stephen, MN, died unexpectedly on Friday, August 23, 2019, in Altru Hospital, Grand Forks, surrounded by his loving family.

Shawn was born on January 6, 1970, to Clarence and Ione (Berberich). He was born in the same hospital room in Karlstad that his Grandfather eventually died in, and it turns out that although he was called “Andy” by not a few people, his middle name was not Andrew, but Michael. Shawn grew up on the family farm and was always into some kind of trouble. He liked to pull pranks, clown around, and make people laugh. And this didn't change after he “grew up,” either. He remained a shyster to the very end.

Always a proud Tiger, Shawn graduated from Stephen High School in 1988, and attended Northland College in Thief River. He enjoyed the social aspect of college more than educational, and he decided he'd rather be working; so he set off on a long career full of different jobs. He drove truck for Davidson Construction, worked during beet harvest for several area farmers including Ken Kalin and Scot Hoeper, put in a few years at Digikey, lived in Fargo for a bit, and racked up 15 years with the Marshall County Highway Department. Shawn also was on the Stephen Volunteer Fire Department from 2008 to 2018. He liked keeping busy, but really preferred fishing and relaxing with his family and friends. Shawn enjoyed being outdoors and took every opportunity to do just that; whether it was deer hunting or sitting on the deck reading the Herald's sports page, if he could be in the sunshine (preferably with a can of beer in his hand) that was alright with him.

Underneath his wild and sometimes challenging exterior, Shawn had a really big heart and a great love for the kids in his life, especially his daughters, niece, and nephews. He'll be remembered for brightening up many days, telling some good jokes, and making his loved ones laugh: he wasn't a perfect person, but he did his best.

Shawn is survived by his parents, Clarence and Ione of Stephen; daughters, Taylor Marie and Shianne Marie (nicknamed “Shiny” by her dad); sister, Jodi (Ray) Kuznia; brother, Greg (Candie) Kostrzewski; nephews, Kylen Kostrzewski and Blake (Jackie) Kuznia: and their daughter, Thea; niece, Chantel (Orlando) Peralta: and their children, Bentley and Bella; and his former wife, Tara Nybladh (married in 2003).

He is preceded in death by his grandparents, Steve and Helen Kostrzewski and Frederich and Delores Beberich; and several aunts, uncles, and cousins.

MASS OF CHRISTIAN BURIAL: Wednesday, August 28, 2019, at 10:30 AM, in Assumption Catholic Church, Florian, MN.
VISITATION: Tuesday evening, August 27, starting at 5:00 PM, with a Prayer Service at 6:30 PM, in Assumption Church, Florian; and one hour prior to Mass.
INTERMENT: Assumption Catholic Cemetery, Florian, MN.