Gerard George Costello's Obituary
Gerard George Costello (“Jerry”) passed away on January 23, 2021 at the age of 71 in San Diego, California. He was surrounded by his loving family as he peacefully entered Heaven.
Jerry was born on November 06, 1949 in Corona, California. He was part of a large Catholic Family, the eighth of thirteen children born to John and Anna Costello. In 1959, at age 10, the family moved to Chula Vista, CA where most reside today. Jerry graduated from Hilltop High school in 1967, where he played basketball where he was a playmaker despite being 5’3 at the time. Upon graduation, he grew! He went to Southwestern College, where he played linebacker on the football team and was recognized as “most inspirational” player, while he earned an Associate degree. In March of 1969, Jerry enlisted in the Army National Guard in Riverside, CA where he served for 6 years as a Sergeant.
In 1971, he met the love of his life, Pamela Valdez of National City, CA. They were married at St. Pius X Church on March 24th 1973. They moved to Jamul, CA where they raised their four children.
He began working in construction, where he developed a passion for carpentry and building. This would continue to be his life’s work. He owned his own construction business, and built many homes around San Diego, CA. Later in life he owned Portable Wood Buildings, building storage sheds, playhouses, and the original tiny houses. This allowed him more time and flexibility to enjoy being an active father and community member.
Jerry loved time with his children, often coaching their soccer, softball, and baseball teams. He loved to take them camping, fishing, to Padre and Charger games, and always the beach. Jerry approached life with high energy and enthusiasm. He loved to make everything a friendly competition (which often would end in tackles on a two-hand touch football game). There was not a ball he would not catch, a dive he would not make, or a shot he would not take. This made him a popular recruit in Adult Softball and Soccer Leagues, most recently, he was the “Young Guy” on the Grumpy’s softball team.
He was a man of faith and believed in the power of prayer. He credited the Lord with healing him from terminal cancer when he was in his early 30’s. His faith inspired him to serve in the Catholic Church. He became a Eucharistic Minister in 1982 at St. Pius X Catholic Church in Jamul and taught Catechism for several years.
Jerry’s Adventurous spirit and love of the ocean led him to pursue owning a home in Rosarito Beach, Mexico. He traveled to the birth place of his father in Puebla, Mexico to obtain his Dual Citizenship. He fell in love with the people, country, and of course the food, and it always held a special place in his heart. His home in Mexico was his labor of love, and perpetual work in progress. He spent many days walking the beach with Pamela, body surfing, fishing from shore, and participating in the 50mile Bike races from Rosarito to Ensenada.
His greatest joy was becoming a grandfather. He loved attending their sporting events, and would drive across country to watch their games or meets. He loved to play them “his music” and always greeted them with a big smile, bear hug, and a big toss into the air.
He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Pamela, his children, Heather Nehmer (Landon), Monica Taitano (Toby), Clayton Costello (Yvette) and Emily Rodvold (Daniel). His Grandchildren, Haylie Rodvold, Adrianna Costello, Brooke Costello, Annie Taitano, Maggie Taitano, Jacob Nehmer, Julia Nehmer, Hailey Lynch, and Jonathan Lynch. His Brothers and Sisters, Joni Scherrer, Theresa Webb, John Costello (Jane), Anthony Costello (Marilyn), Patricia Hansen (Chuck), Phillip Costello (Kathy), David Costello, Tim Costello (Rose), Christine Peery, Denis Costello, Bernadette Shackleford (Jess), and Mary Egler (Mike). His sister and brother In-laws Donna Valdez (Bob), Anthony Valdez (Virginia), Lucretia Valdez, Corrina Allison (Scott). Lastly, he leaves behind 67 nieces and nephews and many great nieces and nephews.
He is preceded in death by his parents John and Anna Costello, his father and mother-in-law, Anthony and Josephine Valdez, his nieces, Catherine Costello and Rachel Copp and brother in law Richard Scherrer.
He had a smile that shined bright like the sun, eyes that sparkle blue like the ocean, and grit like the sand on the beach. Heaven always feels a little closer when you are near the sea, and we know that is where Jerry will be! In Lieu of flowers, Live like Jerry and do a kind deed for your neighbor or someone in need.
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