Ian Joseph Kostiak, age 43, of Saranac Lake, died on Thursday, December 3, 2015.

Ian entered this life on Sept. 14, 1972 in Burlington Vermont. A longstanding point of humor with Ian was that he was fed with an eye dropper as a newborn. He quickly outgrew this need and enjoyed many a fine meal!

His early years were spent in Wilmington NY with the love & support of that community. He especially liked walking old logging trails with his dog Friskie.

Ian relocated to Saranac Lake in 1981 where he attended Middle & High School. He established many friendships there which carried throughout his life in our community.

He led a full and meaningful life thanks to the tireless devotion of the Adirondack Arc’s direct support professionals and executive staff while living at residences on Woodruff St. & Trudeau Rd.

Ian was a dependable employee for many years as part of housekeeping at the Hilton/High Peaks Resort as well as a carrier for the Adirondack Daily Enterprise. Many local folks knew him from walking his route. He was especially well received at The Belvedere.

He frequently attended Sunday service at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church where the congregation embraced his loving spirit. Coffee hour after service was also a real treat for him.

Ian pursued a variety of sports: soccer, cross country skiing, snowshoeing, bowling, baseball, basketball. He delighted in the camaraderie and competition of Special Olympics at local, regional & state events. He celebrated his awards with a big thumbs up

He also worked out regularly at a local gym with Arc staff assistance. He was recognized by other gym members for his inspirational attitude and dedication.

A lifelong music lover, Ian amazed us with his ability to name songs & artists with just a few bars. He was thrilled to hear his favorites such as James Taylor & Stevie Nicks in live performances.

He spent many a pleasant afternoon along the trails of the VIC & Henry’s Woods and
delighted in naming plants, trees and birds. A woodpecker tapping would prompt his comment of “Insect, food chain”

Ian was a loving family & community member who brought joy to all of us. We were fortunate to share some special moments with him. We will miss his smile as well as his sincere love for life and all that met him.

Ian is survived by his loving Father, Joe and family members Kathy Ann Scott, Garth Cilley and Evelyn Cilley.

Calling hours will take place at the Fortune-Keough Funeral Home in Saranac Lake on Tuesday December 8, 2015 from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. A funeral service will take place at 11:00 AM on Thursday December 10, 2015 at Church of Saint Luke, the Beloved Physician in Saranac Lake with The Reverend Ann S. Gaillard officiating. A reception will immediately follow the service in the parish hall.

Friends wishing to remember Ian can make memorial contributions to the Church of Saint Luke, the Beloved Physician in care of the funeral home. Family and friends can also share their memories and sign the online guestbook at fortunekeoughfuneralhome.com.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Ian Joseph Kostiak, please visit our Heartfelt Sympathies Store.