John Richard Costello: Sept. 17, 1934-March 24, 2024
Social networking apps have nothing on John (Jack) Richard Costello, who worked harder than anyone (and anything) to forge and maintain connections among family, friends and colleagues.
He was born to parents Bernard and Dorothy Costello, who raised him and his three siblings in the South Side’s iconic 55th and Halsted neighborhood, where Jack forged bonds that would last a lifetime.
Always true to his school, Jack attended Visitation Grade School then Leo High School. After serving in the U.S. Army, he earned his undergraduate and MBA degrees from the Illinois Institute of Technology (IIT).
After college, Jack found his longtime career home at United Airlines, where he served as an auditor and rose to become president of its food service division. He also found the love of his life, Mary, whom he married in 1974, when they moved to Elmhurst. Together, the couple shared adventures around the country and the world. Later, they were joined by another travel companion when they welcomed son Brian.
A change in circumstances inspired a new opportunity: Gourmair, Jack’s airline catering consultancy. Under that umbrella, he opened The Timbers restaurant and catering business, operating it for nearly 30 years. He also served as director of food service for the Chicago Public Schools.
Outside of his career pursuits, Jack was the driving force of myriad reunions both large and small, from 55th & Halsted summer picnics to Vis Kids’ golf outings, to United retiree gatherings. An avid traveler, Jack took his family on countless trips. Those included frequent visits to Ireland, where he proudly held dual citizenship.
Jack is survived by his wife, Mary (McTigue), son Brian and daughter-in-law Kristine (Kristi), and adoring grandchildren Abigail (Abbie), Beckett, Liam and Piper. Additionally, he is survived by his brothers Bernard (Blackie) and Thomas (Tom). He is predeceased by his sister, Eileen. Other survivors include scores of nieces, nephews and cousins who loved him dearly.
Services to celebrate Jack’s life will be held on Saturday, April 6 with visitation at 8 a.m. to 9:00 a.m at Gibbons Funeral Home, 134 South York Road, (1/2 mile North of Saint Charles Road), Elmhurst; Mass of Christian Burial at 9:30 a.m. at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Elmhurst. Interment All Saints Catholic Cemetery, Des Plaines. Donations may be made in Jack’s name to The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research, Grand Central Station, P.O. Box 4777, New York, NY 10163-4777. For funeral information please call 630-832-0018 or www.gibbonsfuneralhome.com