Joseph T. Costa

Joseph Theodore Costa, "Joe" passed away at home on Tuesday, Feb. 5, 2019.

He was born Feb. 20, 1933, in Champaign, the middle child and second son of Michael and Louisa Brown Costa. He attended Holy Cross Grade School, Champaign Jr. High and Champaign High School, graduating in 1951. From March 30, 1953 to March 29, 1955, he served in the Army, first in the Infantry at Fort Lewis Washington, then in the Signal Corps at Fort Huachuca Arizona. 

Joe was always a dedicated worker and loyal employee. He retired from his job after 31 years as parts manager at Royse and Brinkmeyer Apartments on Feb. 16, 2018, just four days before his 85th birthday.

Smart, kind, self-giving, funny and generous, he was awarded the Presidential Point of Light service pin for his many volunteer hours with Meals on Wheels. He was a Third Degree Knight of Columbus at St. Patrick's Church where he also was unselfish in offering his time and many talents in various ministries. 

On Nov. 30, 1989, he married his soul mate, Nancy L. Costa. They were blessed with 29 happy years of marriage. She survives.

Also surviving are nephews, Larry Costa and his wife Nancy of Mooresville, N.C., Michael Costa and wife Rhonda of Champaign and John Pedigo of Urbana; niece, Pamela Smith and husband Royce of Tampa, Fla.; and several great-nieces and great-nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Charles M Costa; sister, Marjorie Pedigo and her husband James Pedigo; and stepson, Jason Bradbury.

Visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m. Monday, Feb. 11, 2019, with a wake service beginning at 4:30 p.m. at Owens Funeral Home, 101 N. Elm St., Champaign, IL 61820. The funeral Mass will be celebrated by Fr. Luke Spannagel at 10 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 12, at St. Patrick's Catholic Church, 708 W. Main St., Urbana, IL 61801. Burial will be at Woodlawn Cemetery in Urbana, with military honors accorded by VFW #5520.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, donations in Joe's memory may be made to St. Patrick's Church. 
 

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