Jack Costello, Jr.

Jack Costello passed away on June 5, 2025 in St. Cloud, Minnesota.

He was born in Melrose, Minnesota to Jack Costello, Sr., and Evelyn (Swanson) Costello. Jack graduated from Sauk Centre High School in 1967. He was a skilled trumpet player and did well in football. After high school he joined the Navy, where he served in Special Forces from 1967 - 1971. He was stationed on the submarine U.S.S. Dogfish for three of those years. During his years of patrol on the submarine, Jack was able to visit Ireland in search of where his ancestors lived, and he kissed the famous Blarney Stone. He was awarded an honorable discharge after completing his four years in the Navy.

In 1973, Jack married Anne Slavick. They eventually moved to the 100-year Costello farm outside of Grey Eagle, MN. They had two sons, Ryan, and Garrett, before moving to Montana in 1982. Their third child Katie was born in Montana. After Jack and Anne divorced, he moved back to Minnesota and continued to drive truck. He was an active member of his motorcycle club, with annual trips to Sturgis, SD on his Harley.

Jack married his wife Connie in 2003. They had so much fun together in all the little things. On their first motorcycle ride together, they got thoroughly soaked in the rain! In 2005 his youngest daughter Averi was born. Jack and Averi had a special bond. She was his pride and joy, his “little peanut.” He shared his love of nature and animals with her. Jack was tough and protective, but patient and loving with Averi. He always had the answers to everything she needed.

Jack had an excellent memory and loved history. He was a proud Irishman and enjoyed listening to Irish music. He had a tenacious Irish spirit, and what could only be described as the “Costello” sense of humor. His mustache was an integral part of his personality! He had a strong sense of justice. After 29 years, he was reunited with his daughter Katie, and soon after he had the joy of celebrating her little miracle baby girl’s arrival. Jack gained so much joy and peace from visits with each of his children and grandchildren. He treated everyone at the VA with love and kindness. He was loved by everyone there, and his loss is deeply felt.

Jack is survived by his loving wife Connie of 21 years, their daughter Averi Costello; former wife Anne Oberquell, their children Ryan (Madelene) Costello, Garrett (Chanda) Costello, and Katie (Ben) Welna; grandchildren: Annalise, Shawn, Tyler, Amari, Daniel, and Jonathan; nephew Sean Costello.

Jack is preceded in death by his parents Jack and Evelyn, infant twin siblings, brother Dan Costello, and niece Jean Marie Costello.

A private memorial service will take place with Jack’s family and fellow veterans at the St. Cloud VA on June 16th, 2025.

A celebration of life and full military honors will be held at Camp Ripley in Little Falls, Minnesota on Tuesday, July 29th, 2025, at 3:00pm. All are welcome to attend and honor his memory.