John Costello. (Courtesy photo)
John Louis Costello, 86, of Harvard, formerly of Concord, died 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 Christians parish council, was a eucharistic minister, and was active with the St. Vincent de Paul Society.
In retirement, John volunteered at Loaves & Fishes and Massachusetts Fisheries and 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; Katherine and her husband Peter McGowan, grandson James; Sara Costello; and Daniel and his wife Jennifer Costello, 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 gathered to honor and remember John for a period of visitation Thursday, April 30, at the Badger Funeral Home, Littleton. John’s Funeral Mass was held Friday, May 1, at 10 a.m., in St. Theresa, The Little Flower Church, Harvard.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating in John’s memory to The Covenant House, PO Box 758636, Topeka KS 66675-9986 (www.covenanthouse.org/donation-options/donate).