I was deeply impressed and moved by the obituary that I read. Jack was a tremendous individual... truly a one of a kind. He was a very proud and loving husband, father and grandfather. And Jack extended this love in so many ways to his sisters and brothers and their families. But most impressive of all, was Jack's deep faith and devotion to Jesus and his Blessed Mother. He truly loved and lived his faith, which was a profound inspiration to me and others.
I remember as a child when mom and dad would tell us that Uncle Jack and Aunt Mary were coming to visit us with the kids - Nancy, Dick and Mary. These were very special times. The gatherings were genuinely great fun, full of stories, good food and drink, and lots of laughs. Anyone who knows him can tell you that Jack could tell a story and a joke better than anyone.. And, there were many times he had my mom and dad in tears -laughing and gasping for air. Once you got him going, he was relentless with his stories and one-liners and he was not shy about showing his loud laugh and tears as he shared them with everyone around him. This man was truly a joy to be with and to call a friend. I have known no one like him and probably never will.
And, during those difficult times, Jack was a rock of support. He would be the mediator, to confidante, and the problem solver on many occasions. When my mom and dad needed support or encouragement, Jack was always there for them. He was so selfless, so conscientious, so caring, and so genuine. The only time when I saw Jack vulnerable to lifeÂ’s challenges is when he lost little Nancy. When his precious daughter left this world a big part of Jack went with her. He loved Nancy very much and would have traded places with her in a heart-beat.
Jack had his opinions about things such as politics, business, and many other topics; and, he was not shy about sharing them with others especially over a beer or two. He would not shy from an argument if he got you into one and that German bull-headedness was very apparent at times. But even if you didn't totally agree with Jack, you always respected what he had to say AND he would always kick in a joke or funny statement to make sure the conversation didnÂ’t go too far or end on a sour note. What a guy!
Jack was a war hero, who never bragged: he was a devoted family man, who worked very hard and diligently; he was only high-school educated who was very astute to the issues and principles of life; and, he was a role model, who I am very proud to call my uncle.
I will miss him very much.
Our deepest condolences to his wonderful wife, Mary, his children Dick and Mary, their respective spouses, and JackÂ’s grand children.
Your husband, dad, and grandpa was one in a trillion!
Love Larry, Vicki, Nick and Nathan Costello
