John Louis Costello

John Louis Costello, 86, of Harvard, formerly of Concord, MA, passed away peacefully on April 27, 2026, at The Atrium at Drum Hill. He was born on April 22, 1940, in Boston, MA, to the late 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 sixty-one 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 the Massachusetts Fish 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 staff at Atrium Drum Hill, Beacon Hospice, and Truly Cherished for their compassionate care.

Family and friends will gather to honor and remember John for a visitation on Thursday, April 30, 2026, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the Badger Funeral Home, 347 King St., Littleton, MA. John’s Funeral Mass will be held on Friday, May 1, 2026, at 10:00 AM, in St. Theresa, The Little Flower Church, 15 Still River Rd., Harvard, MA. Burial will be private.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in John’s memory to
The Covenant House
PO Box 758636
Topeka KS 66675-9986
https://www.covenanthouse.org/donation-options/donate

Arrangements under the care of the Badger Funeral Home, 347 King St., Littleton, MA. 978-486-3709, www.badgerfuneral.com.