Leo Bernard James Costello
Leo Bernard James Costello passed away on March 31, 2016, surrounded by Carol, his loving wife of 46 years; and his family and friends.
Leo was born in Seattle, WA, October 28, 1932 to his Irish father Joseph Costello and Italian mother Angela DeDonato Costello. Two heritages of which he was extremely proud.
He grew up on Beacon Hill where he attended St. George School. Leo graduated from O’Dea High where he played football, and made many lifetime friends. He was an avid football fan, following O’Dea and Notre Dame to the end.
Leo enlisted in the United States Coast Guard the day the Korean War broke out, and served four years in Korea, the Pacific, Panama Canal, Hawaii and other places.
After discharge, Leo returned to Seattle and enrolled in Seattle University graduating in 1958 with a degree in business. There, he was involved in many clubs and activities including being the first student development director, founder of the Vets Club and member of the Grads Club.
After graduation from SU, Leo went into the restaurant business, and was a very popular bartender at Vito’s. Following his restaurant career, Leo went to work as a bailiff in the King County Court system. He worked there for 23 years, and was a renowned courthouse personality especially known for running a well organized courtroom, and having a great candy jar.
Leo was extremely proud of his rose garden and spent a lot of time keeping them in top shape. He also loved animals, particularly his 3 cats.
Leo was involved in, and donated a great deal of time to, a number of charitable organizations. He was especially proud to be a member of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulcher of Jerusalem. He was a lifetime member of the Knights of Columbus, past president of the Society of the Friends of St. Patrick, past president of the Seattle Serra Club and a member of the Crozier Society.
Leo is survived by his wife Carol; brother, John (Mary Jo); brother-in-law, Doug Axelson (Michele); 15 nieces and nephews; and dear family friend, Rose Boyle.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Saturday, April 9th at 10:00 AM at St. John Vianney Catholic Chruch 12600 – 84th Ave NE, Kirkland, WA.
Remembrances are suggested to Seattle University Law School, St. John Vianney Chuch or a charity of your choice.
Hoffner Fisher & Harvey
Guestbook at harveyfuneral.com
