Deacon Joseph Costello, who served at Assumption Parish in Wildwood Crest, died Jan. 7 after a lengthy illness.
After graduating from high school, Deacon Costello served in the U.S. Navy from 1945-55, as an air traffic controller. From 1955-78, he worked for the Federal Aviation Administration as an air traffic controller.
Ordained a deacon for the Diocese of Rockville Centre, N.Y., in 1981, he moved with his wife, Catherine, to Wildwood Crest in 1985, where he served at Assumption Parish.
In 1990, Deacon Costello was incardinated into the Diocese of Camden, and served as liaison to the Charismatic Renewal, and assisted in hospital chaplaincy. He retired from active ministry in 2004.
“Deacon Joseph Costello has been a gift to our diocese from the time he retired and relocated here,” said Deacon Leo McBlain, director of the Office of the Diaconate for the Diocese of Camden.
“He was not only a good administrator but always a willing and amiable co-worker,” he added.