James Arthur Costello

James Arthur Costello, 79, passed away on Saturday, April 26, 2025, at HCA Florida Fawcett Hospital. A beloved husband, father, grandfather, veteran, and friend, Jim lived a full and devoted life defined by hard work, loyalty, humor, and love for his family.

Born on April 15, 1946, in Norristown, Pennsylvania, Jim was a gifted athlete who excelled in football and wrestling at Methacton High School, graduating in 1964. His speed and strength made him a standout on the field, and his coaches even urged him to join the track team.

He served honorably in the United States Navy from January 1965 to February 1970, specializing in nuclear electrical power and serving during the Vietnam Era. His last duty station was aboard the USS Columbus (CG-12), where he continued to build a legacy of service and skill.

After leaving the Navy, Jim worked as an electrical foreman at Stouffer Foods in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania, and later as a Senior Nuclear Procedure Writer at the North Anna Power Station in Virginia with Dominion Power. He remained with Dominion for twenty years until his retirement in 2004.

In 1975, Jim met the love of his life, Karen, and they married in 1978. Together, they raised two children, Mike and Amanda, and built a beautiful life grounded in love and commitment. This May would have marked their 47th wedding anniversary.

Jim was a man of many passions. He held a private pilot’s license and enjoyed flying with friends. He loved hunting, fishing, and boating, and found joy in collecting arrowheads and shark teeth. A lifelong learner and curious soul, he also enjoyed trivia and storytelling, always ready with a joke or a tale. He was the go-to handyman for his family and thrived on home improvement projects. Perhaps most importantly, he adored spending time with his grandchildren, whether playing games, cuddling, goofing around, or simply eating delicious food and sharing treats.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Evelyn and Arthur Costello; in-laws, Clara and Paul Loughery, Sr.; and sister and brother-in-law, Joan and William Stoy.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Karen Costello; his son, Michael Costello, and daughter-in-law Krista of Locust Grove, Virginia; his daughter, Amanda Boyer, and son-in-law Justin of Punta Gorda, Florida; seven grandchildren: Dakota Tapp (Chelsea Bury), Amanda Hurst (Matt Croyle), Rebecca Boyer, Sydra Hale, Dustin Boyer, James Boyer, and Aaron Boyer; two great-grandchildren, Sophia Croyle and Asher Tapp; and his nephew, Randy Stoy of Norristown, Pennsylvania.

A celebration of Jim’s life will be held at a future date.

Memorial donations can be made in his honor to:
Lee County VA Clinic
By Mail:
Department of Veterans Affairs Cape Coral
2489 Diplomat Parkway East
Cape Coral, FL 33909-5422
Please make checks payable to Department of Veterans Affairs Cape Coral
Memo: In Honor of James Costello

Jim Costello’s legacy of love, integrity, and strength will continue to live on in all those who had the privilege of knowing him.

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