James Joseph Costello

Jim Costello, 93 of Charlotte, Iowa, peacefully passed into eternal life at home in the care of his children on April 10, 2022.

James Joseph Costello was born April 30, 1928, to Valerie Joseph and Ella Theresa (O’Brien) Costello, the oldest of 9 children. He attended the local Petersville school where was taught by nuns.  He began working the family farm at an early age, dairy, hogs, corn, and hay, before entering the army in 1954.  Upon his return to Charlotte, he married Evelyn Banowetz of Sugar Creek on April 21, 1956.  Jim cultivated the family farm near Charlotte for many years, and continued farming in his later years with his son Dennis.

Jim was a talented horseman and trained horses for himself and others in the area. He was also an accomplished craftsman, mastering many skills, including plumbing, construction, and auto body work, the knowledge of which he passed on to his children.  He was always lending a hand to others regardless of the task.

Throughout his entire life, he was a devoted member of the Immaculate Conception Church in Petersville, Iowa. He enjoyed spending time with family and friends, socializing and telling stories, particularly during the annual church picnic and outings. He worked throughout his retirement years, and enjoyed spending time with his children and grandchildren. His hobbies included reading, watching horse racing, and occasionally traveling. Jim led by example, ingraining his work ethic in his eight children with a balance of leadership and a kind heart.

Jim is survived by his children, Dennis Costello of Charlotte, Diana Costello (Ed Kasemodel) of Grand Mound, Karen (Brian) Watters of Maquoketa, Arlene (Michael) Lyon of Maquoketa, Laurine (Jeff) Gruhn of Sabula, Louann Reuter of Maquoketa, Dale (Lynn) Costello of Clifton Park, NY, and Lois (Frank) Zabrocky of Connecticut; 20 grandchildren and 20 great grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

He is also survived by 2 sisters, Marie Leenknecht of Moline, Illinois, and Ilene Murray of Santa Clarita, California, along with 3 brothers, John (Lori) Costello of Hollister, Missouri, Ralph (Fern) Costello of Plymouth, Indiana, and Donald (Ruth) Costello of Bolingbrook, Illinois. 

He was preceded in death by his loving wife of nearly 66 years, Evelyn, his parents, 3 brothers, Michael, Gilbert, and Paul, a baby sister, and infant great-grandchildren.

A private family service will be held at Schultz Funeral Home, DeWitt, with burial at Assumption Catholic Cemetery, Charlotte.

Arrangements are in the care of Schultz Funeral Home, DeWitt. Condolences may be expressed at www.schultzfuneralhomes.com

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