Joseph Salvatore Costa

Suddenly on Friday, neember 20, in the VA Medical Center, Joseph S. Costa, 86, beloved husband of Cecelia ???Ceil??? Costa, (nee Freda); devoted father of Richard (Mary) Costa of Montville, NJ, Joseph J. Costa (Susan) of Durham, NC and Karen (Bill) Ference of Marlborough, MA; fond grandfather of Christopher, Michael and Joanna; and brother of Peter Costa of Staten Island. A native of Newark, NJ and most recently living on the Jersey shore in Barnegat, Joe and Ceil moved to Durham in the last year. Joe and Ceil met in their teeneears and spent 63 wonderful years together. He spent his career as a police officer with the Newark Police Department, working at all levels of law enforcement, eventually joining the detective bureau. Joe proudly served his Country during the Korean Conflict in the Army Infantry, and was awarded the Purple Heart. Despite a military disability, he maintained a positive attitude and outlook on life. Joe Costa will be remembered for his strong character, devotion to his family, warmth, kineess and loyalty as a friend. A Catholic funeral liturgy for family members will be held Friday in the Chapel of Hall-Wynne Funeral Service. Gifts in Joe's memory may be made to the Disabled Americaneeterans, dav.org.