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04/08/16 12:05 PM #389    

 

Michael A. Boyell

Brendan, 

I am sorry I could not attend your retirement party. However, your service is very much appreciated. I wiish you and your family well. 

Your friend, 

Michael A. Boyell


04/08/16 01:53 PM #390    

Jeanette Burns (Dubela)

Brendan's story is nothing short of amazing.  I truly admire the unflinching loyalty, respect and deep love that his family has for him.  It was an honor to be at his retirement party.  And what a treat to be able to spend the day with so many old friends! After all these years our class remains bonded in such a special way.  Big props to Shawn & Andy for orgainizing the gift effort and to Tim for creating a thoughtful & entertaining video that perfectly captured the day. Love you all!

***Here we have our war hero, in middle school, looking very 70's chic!***


04/09/16 10:34 AM #391    

Russell Brown

Fred - Brendan's hands are the biggest I've ever seen.  If they were green you would think they were attached to the Hulk!

And yes - Brendan is an amazing person.  Just ask my neighbor.  After meeting him one time wants to adopt him!


04/10/16 07:45 AM #392    

John Costello

Wrong Costello, Russ. ;)

No worries, though.

04/11/16 07:37 AM #393    

 

Patti Klatt (DiGenni)

To Sgt. Major Brendan O'Connor. Many kudos to you and your family! And thank you for the many years if service you have given us, and the memories you have bestowed on Moorestown as well. Your classmates are so proud ... sorry I couldn't be with you on your day. New jobs suck.

04/21/16 06:19 PM #394    

 

Tim Monahan




07/07/21 06:15 PM #395    

 

Andy Cleff

 

Frederick James Costello, 61, of Bonita Springs, FL died suddenly on July 2, 2021. Fred will be best remembered for his quick smile, his deep devotion to family, his love of song, and his unparalleled knack for maintaining countless friendships across the miles and years.

Fred was born on May 17, 1960 in Fort Monmouth, NJ to Nancy Peters, a dental hygienist, and to Fred Costello, Sr., who spent his career with Union Carbide. The couple raised Fred and his five younger siblings in several states.  These frequent childhood moves may have contributed to Fred’s love of travel, ideally to places where he could find white sand beaches, fine food, and ample supplies of Chardonnay. The best of these adventures happened with his beloved wife and traveling companion, Ann, by his side.

As early as high school, Fred demonstrated qualities that would become hallmarks of his life and career. As a teenager he displayed a rare combination of both leadership and humility; he was popular but kind to all. In fact, Fred was beloved by such a wide spectrum of classmates that he was voted senior class president and Homecoming King before graduating from Moorestown High School in Moorestown, New Jersey.

Fred went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts from Columbia University in the City of New York where he majored in history and political science but with a mischievous grin and a wink would readily admit that he spent his best hours pursuing the fine art of Greek life at his fraternity, Phi Gamma Delta.

After graduating, Fred remained in New York City, where he began a successful career in the food business. On many pre-dawn mornings, you would have found Fred, a fish buyer for several restaurants, haggling over prices at the city’s famed Fulton Fish Market or working late nights – and no doubt sweating profusely – managing restaurants in Manhattan.

But Fred always shined brightest when enveloped by his vast circle of family and friends; a seemingly endless sphere that spanned time zones and generations. Fred’s many close relationships were fostered intentionally by a man who always called loved ones on their birthdays; he was the gracious and patient host of days-long gatherings of family who would overtake the Florida home he shared with Ann. And as a new retiree, Fred lovingly and loyally shepherded his beloved parents through their final years.

As a parent himself, Fred made fatherhood fun. He planned family trips months in advance, taking Trey and Maggie to Europe and Asia and they often joined him in the stands to cheer on their beloved St Louis Cardinals, Arizona Cardinals and Chicago Bulls. Even after Maggie and Trey left home for college and careers, they continued to speak to their dad regularly by phone.

Whenever Maggie had a challenge she was facing in work or in life, her dad was always her first call, and he would often reply, “Are you looking for advice? Or just someone to listen?” Fred always intuitively knew which was needed. Similarly, Trey found in his dad a man with whom he was completely comfortable; their conversations were infused with witty quips and laughter and yet when he needed it, Trey could rely on his dad for sage advice. When Fred married Ann, he gained two “bonus children” in Keegan and Kathleen. He was a loving stepfather, mentor and friend to them in many ways.

Colleagues, friends and family experienced in Fred those same gifts – of empathic listener and wise counselor. At work, Fred was also a respected business leader and gifted public speaker; qualities that eventually propelled him to the roles of Senior Vice President and President at Grainger International, where he led the company’s billion-dollar international businesses outside of the US and Canada, until his retirement two years ago. Fred also volunteered on the Board of Directors at the American Red Cross of Illinois.

As his parents aged and later passed away, Fred delicately stepped into their shoes, re-emerging as the quintessential ‘big brother’ to his five younger siblings. Despite trials and family spats, Fred always led by example, choosing the high road and seeing the best in his loved ones. He managed the challenging terrain of familial relations with utter grace and open heartedness and in doing so, became the glue that held the family together. His siblings would regularly pick up the phone to hear their big brother say, “I just wanted to see how you’re doing.”

Fred was short in stature but his deep tan and thick coif of hair was the envy of many men. Indeed, Fred led a life that was large and successful by any measure, but he never demanded that others take notice. If there was ever someone who lead life by quiet example, it was Fred. Indeed, watching this man move through the world was a lesson in embracing life because he had experienced its spectrums: from the depths of sorrow and loss to the warm embrace of true love with Ann. And all those who were fortunate enough to love Fred received it back from him unconditionally and tenfold.

Perhaps no one moreso than his wife Ann Nobis Costello who survives him, and his children, Margaret (“Maggie”) Costello of Washington, DC and Frederick James Costello III (“Trey”) of Champaign, IL; his stepchildren, Kathleen Haines of Chicago, IL and Keegan Haines of Columbia, MO. Fred also leaves his five siblings and their spouses, Catherine and Ronnie Bennett of Bethlehem, GA; Dan Costello and Kerry Bernard of Maynard, MA; Sue Costello and Jeff Keffer of Arlington, MA; James Costello and Candy Chan of Hong Kong, and Amy Costello and Gregory Watt of Austin, TX; as well as friends, nieces and nephews too numerous to count.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Fred’s memory may be made to the “James V. Costello Scholarship” which supports low-income students at the alma mater of Fred’s father.

Worcester Polytechnic Institute c/o University Advancement, 100 Institute Road, Worcester, MA 01609.

You may also consider a donation to The Red Cross of Illinois. If you would like to make a donation by check, please fill out a donation form online and send to:

The American Red Cross, PO Box 37839, Boone, IA 50037-0839.

Expressions of sympathy may be sent to: Ann Nobis Costello 27290 Hidden River Court, Bonita Springs, FL 34134.

A private graveside ceremony will be held at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Lee, MA.

If you would like to leave a message of condolence or share pictures with the family, please visit www.kellyfuneralhome.net

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Frederick James Costello, please visit the Kelly Funeral Home's floral store.


07/09/21 09:14 AM #396    

 

Geoffrey Grady

Farewell to a good kid who became a great man.


07/09/21 02:13 PM #397    

 

Connie Kilroy (Ohlsten)

What a beautiful tribute to an exceptional person. Thanks for sharing it, Andy.

It is raining cats and dogs here today -- as often happens when we lose one of the great ones.

Rest in peace, Fred, and thank you for shining your light on us. 


07/10/21 11:50 AM #398    

 

Dr. James Troutman

I was really touched by this tribute to Fred. Really appreciated it and, though I was not a close to Fred as some of you, I always admired him and his joyous spirit, big smile that revealed his big heart. And, I learned we were FIJI brothers and didn't even know it. The toga picture cracked me up as I had a few too many experiences in a toga in college at Davidson in NC! Times at Moorestown HS seem so long ago, but yet seem like yesterday. Grateful to have lived in Moorestown and attended a really quality HS with some amazing impactful teachers and lots of great times and experiences. These posts are reminders of the fragility of life and remind me to stay focused on family and friends and keep the experiences rolling and continue to revel in them. Thanks for sharing Andy. This memorial to Fred was beautifully written and was a real tribute to him.


07/12/21 10:59 AM #399    

 

Susan Wilkins (Johnson)

I took some time to dig through Moorestown High School Nutshells, miscellaneous photos, & newspaper clippings from the 1977-1978 era, looking for something to add to this memorial blog. I found a quote from Fred in The News Chronicle dated April 27, 1978, in a story about the Home and School Fair. Fred said “Since I’m an elected officer, working on the Fair is one of the main things I can do for the Home and School Association. I feel responsible for helping…” I imagine this ethic is one that he carried through the entirety of his life. Fred helped make the world a better place.

Although our paths only crossed a couple of times post MHS graduation, I always had a special place in my heart and mind for him. A brilliant life ended way too soon.



 


05/15/23 07:46 AM #400    

 

Susan Wilkins (Johnson)

MHS Class of 1978 45th Reunion Tickets Now on Sale!!!

The Moorestown High School Class of 1978 is proud to announce that tickets are now on sale for our 45th Reunion to be held at the Grand Resort Hotel, Mt Laurel on Saturday October 14th.    

Purchase your tickets on the class website (moorestown78.com) by clicking on the MHS 45th Reunion tab (leftside of home screen).

Early bird tickets purchased before July 31st are $90 per person.  Ticket price after July 31st will be $100 per person, Ticket sales end September 14th.  

Please help spread the word to our classmates!


08/12/23 08:44 PM #401    

 

Tim Monahan

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=opLN4g0uj1M

 

 

 

 

Bob Becker's Life Journey

 


08/12/23 08:50 PM #402    

 

Tim Monahan

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=opLN4g0uj1M

 

Bob Becker's Life Journey Extended Dance Mix


08/14/23 10:25 AM #403    

 

Susan Wilkins (Johnson)

Tim -

The Youtube video you posted is a very touching tribute to Bob Becker.  I found the message at the end very appropriate too (essentially don't wait to tell your friends you love them).  Remember our school motto "Carpe Diem" or Sieze the Day...take advantage of every opportunity.

I encourage anyone else who wants to pay tribute to other departed classmates to add a story in their honor.

I look forward to seeing you at the 45th Reunion on Oct 14th!

Susan


10/04/23 11:09 AM #404    

 

Jill Wilkinson

Hi 1978-ers

Not sure who's headed into town for the reunion (or lives in town and will be around) --- but I'm anxious to catch up with everyone!

AND, if anyone wants to play some pickleball over the weekend - I'd love to play or join your group. It looks like M-town has a few courts around town. I'll be in town on Thursday - Sunday - 561-379-7651.. 


10/05/23 10:15 AM #405    

 

Vikki Bovoso (Monaghan)

Hi Jill!

Lookingh forward to seeing you and everyone else. Count me in for pickleball. I play in Central Jersey, but if a group is getting together in Moorestown, I'd love to join.

Vikki


10/05/23 10:53 AM #406    

 

Andrew Simpson

I'm flying in, landing around 3:30 p.m. on Saturday, so no pickle ball for me (not that my 5-1/2 month old new knee would allow that anyway).  But I look forward to seeing everyone at the reunion. Hopefully the Phillies will have already clinched the series against ATL so that Game 5 is not ongoing during our event. Go Phils!


10/06/23 07:08 AM #407    

 

Kevin Berry

Looking forward to seeing everyone, bring your dancing shoes! Pickleball sounds fun... Saturday?

10/11/23 05:05 PM #408    

Shavaun Carey (Roberts)

Is anyone going to Otts Friday night????  


10/12/23 11:50 AM #409    

 

Kevin Berry

Ott's sounds fun. I plan to stop by after 9pm, I hope you guys stick around. See the rest of you Saturday!

10/13/23 08:34 AM #410    

 

Kevin Berry

Safe travels everyone!
Hope to see you later tonight at Ott's🕺
(after 9pm for me, previous engagement) or tomorrow evening.
Go Phillies!😁

10/15/23 02:52 PM #411    

 

Susan Wilkins (Johnson)

Thanks to everyone who came to the reunion last night.  We even had former teachers Bader, Boehmler, Rhody, and Rogers stop by for happy hour!

If the event wasn't exciting enough, we had a power outage 75% into the party!  Below is our emergency lights only group photo.

Make sure you upload your photos from the event to the Class Photo Album on this website. I posted a couple other photos there too.

See everyone at our 50th in 2028.  Bernie and Shavaun have already volunteered to help plan it!

Stay well.  Susan

 


10/15/23 03:58 PM #412    

 

Joan Bancroft (Duckett)

Thank you Susan for all you did for the reunion. Also a thank you to Kevin for his help arranging things. Had a great evening with everyone. It was a blast seeing everyone. Looking forward to seeing everyone in 5 years! God willing. Class of 1978 the best ever. 💛🖤

10/17/23 03:25 PM #413    

 

Mauricio Solórzano

Hi Everybody. I barely recognize some of you. I recognize Denis, becuase he was in the Basketball team.  It is really nice to see all of you!

I'll try to make it in 5 years, if I'm still around :)


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