John Louis Costello, 86
John Louis Costello, 86, of Harvard, formerly of Acton, passed away peacefully on April 27, 2026, at The Atrium at Drum Hill. He was born on April 22, 1940, in Boston to Angelo and Evelyn (Giardino) Costello.
John, a proud graduate of Boston Latin High School and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, had a lifelong passion for sports, especially baseball and hockey, where he was the goalie for MIT. During this time, he was recognized as a Greater Boston League All-Star left fielder and batting champion. After earning a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering from MIT, John dedicated his entire career to one company, working at Badger/Raytheon.
He fulfilled his ROTC commitment with the Army in Kentucky, where he met his beloved wife of 61 years, Lawrene (Smith) Costello, who was serving in the Women’s Army Corps. They married in Pirmasens, Germany, in 1964. His career led his family on many adventures, living in Louisiana, England, and Holland. His faith was central to his life; he taught CCD, served on the Our Lady Help of Christian’s parish council, was an Eucharistic minister, and was active with the St. Vincent de Paul Society.
In retirement, John volunteered at Loaves and Fishes and Massachusetts Division of Fisheries & Wildlife. Throughout his life, he enjoyed the outdoors and being active, gardening, biking, and running. He found joy in bluegrass music, playing the banjo, guitar, and harmonica, and regularly jammed with a group in Acton on Friday nights.
A devoted husband, father, and Papa, John is survived by his wife Lawrene; his children John and his wife Jamie Costello, and Katherine and her husband Peter McGowan and John’s grandson James, Sara Costello, and Daniel and his wife Jennifer Costello and John’s grandson Jack.
The family would like to thank the compassionate care provided by the staff at Atrium Drum Hill, Beacon Hospice, and Truly Cherished.
Family and friends were to gather to honor and remember John for a period of visitation on Thursday, April 30, from 5-7 p.m. at Badger Funeral Home, 347 King Street, Littleton. John’s funeral Mass will be held Friday, May 1, at 10 a.m. in St. Theresa, The Little Flower Church, 15 Still River Road, Harvard.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating in John’s memory to: The Covenant House, P.O. Box 758636, Topeka KS 66675-9986, covenanthouse.org/donation-options/donate.
Arrangements under the care of Badger Funeral Home, 347 King Street, Littleton.
