John George Costello

John G. Costello, Jr., 91, passed away on April 6, 2018, in Whittier, California. He was born on May 13, 1926, in Passaic, New Jersey, to John and Victoria (Urban) Costello. He grew up and went to school in Passaic, along with his 3 siblings, Christine, Walter and Michael.

Following high school, John enlisted in the US Army. He served honorably during World War II in the 272nd Infantry Division assigned to Italy and Germany. John quickly rose to the rank of Staff Sergeant in charge of Supply.

In 1950, John moved to California. He initially settled in the South Gate area, but later eventually moved to La Mirada, California in 1976. This turned out to be a tremendous blessing, as it was there that he met and fell in love with his sweetheart, Constance Connie Marie. They were married on September 4, 1982, at Beatitudes of Our Lord Church in La Mirada, California, and they enjoyed over 35 years together. With the marriage came three wonderful grown children as well as several grandchildren.

Professionally, John worked at Hoffman Electronics for a time before taking employment with the US Postal Service in Norwalk, California. He remained with the Post Office until his retirement.

Grunk, as he was affectionately known, enjoyed reading on the porch and traveling with his wife and family. He was very generous and supported worthwhile charities including The Wounded Warrior Project. A devout Catholic, he enjoyed serving at the church by helping with fairs and church dances, counting offerings on Sunday, and cleaning the altar. John was also a member of the Knights of Columbus and enjoyed his fellowship with fellow members.

John is survived by his dear wife, Connie; children, Cheryl (Don), David (Norma) and Rick; grandchildren, Melissa, Mathew, Lauren, Sarah, Brandon, Darrin, Brian, and Bridgett; numerous great-grandchildren; nieces and nephews, Gloria (Gary), John (Nita), Joan, Jane, Susan, Sandra, Jennifer, and Debra; and numerous great and great-great nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings.

Viewing will begin at 10:00 am on Monday, April 16, 2018, followed by a Catholic Prayer Service at 11:00 am, at White Emerson Mortuary, 13304 Philadelphia St., Whittier, California. Interment will follow at All Souls Cemetery, 4400 Cherry Avenue, Long Beach, California.