Michelle Marie Costanza

Michelle Marie Costanza, age 51, of Fort Wayne, Indiana passed away on Thursday, September 30, 2021. Michelle earned her Masters degree from Indiana Wesleyan University and worked in telecommunications for 26 years, at what was initially GTE which changed to Verizon, which then changed to Frontier. For anyone that knew Michelle, she was more than just a mom to her own two children but acted as a surrogate mother for many of her children’s friends who Michelle then considered family. Fun fact: Michelle and Don were high-school sweethearts, and at age 13 Don told Michelle he wanted to marry her. They broke up yet got together a few years later and were together ever since. Michelle became an exceptional chef (self-taught) and her invitations to a Thanksgiving or random evening dinner were excitedly anticipated by everyone. In addition to her passion for preparing elaborate meals for others, she was obsessed with horses and was an accomplished rider. Michelle enjoyed traveling the globe with her husband and, when suitable, dogs Reece and Murphy. Michelle also enjoyed reading, going to the shooting range with her husband, watching Food Network, and playing video games with friends. Michelle frequently donated items to local hospitals. as well as worked to get shelter animals adopted as part of her love for the 4-legged furry friends. She is survived by her husband, Don Costanza; two incredible daughters, Courtney (Andrew) Graham and Ashley Costanza; parents Dave and Diane Thompson; sister, Theresa Gnass; brother; David Michael Thompson; and beloved 4-legged family members, Valor, Reece, and Murphy. As a Celebration of Life has already taken place, the family invites you to continue sharing your best memories of Michelle through social media, e-mail, text messages, etc. Memorial Contributions may be directed to the Illinois Doberman Rescue Plus at https://www.ildoberescue.com. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.AdvantageHighlandPark.com for the Costanza family.