Joseph L Costello

Joseph “Joe” Lyman Costello, 75, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family on September 16, 2024. Joe defied the odds of a dismal prognosis four years ago. Given two months to live, Joe’s courage and optimism through cancer treatment gave us the gift of more time and memories. Even as his health deteriorated, he never complained and his sense of humor endured. Joe was a social butterfly that played an active role in his community. He provided countless contributions as a volunteer and member of multiple boards. He was a devout husband, a loving father, and a proud grandfather. He was also a talented cribbage player, classic car aficionado, bargain hunter, and cook; he could make one heck of a spaghetti sauce and meatball. The oldest of four children, Joe was born on August 14,1949 at Memorial Hospital in North Conway, NH to Muriel and Frank Costello. He first met Madelene Pond, his future bride, in the sixth grade. They later became high school sweethearts, and married in August 1969. Joe cherished his fifty-five years of marriage with Maddie. They built a life together in Conway where they raised their four children and remained perpetually in love, often embarrassing their children with their unabashed affection. Joe graduated from Kennett High School and Berlin Technical College. A career banker, he first worked at North Conway Bank then Community Bank & Trust. He took great pride in mentoring and helping his customers to finance their business dreams. Joe’s favorite job, however, was playing Santa Claus during the holidays. Joe is predeceased by his daughter Julie Costello, and his parents Muriel and Frank Costello. Joe is survived by his wife Maddie Costello of Conway, NH. Daughter Heidi Costello of Siesta Key, FL, her daughter Alana Costello of Lisbon, NY. Son Paul Costello Sr., his children Paul Costello Jr., Ryan Costello, and Chelsea Costello of Albany, NH. Daughter Katelyn Picard and husband Michael Picard, their children Joseph Picard and Hazel Picard of Winthrop, ME. Siblings Lori Milner, Tony Costello, and Lisa Costello all of Maine. Family and friends are invited to attend visiting hours at Furber Funeral Home in North Conway, NH on Friday, October 4th from 4:00-6:00 pm. A private service will be held for close relatives. Arrangements were made through Furber Funeral Home and Cremation Services. Joe’s family would like to thank his Oncology and Palliative care team at Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, Visiting Nurse Homecare and Hospice of Carroll County, Memorial Hospital, and Conway Fire Rescue. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Jen’s Friends Cancer Foundation.