James Patrick Costello

Known to his friends and family as Jim, he was born on October 4, 1950, in Cleveland, Ohio, and was the son of the late William and Mary (Snider) Costello. Jim passed away peacefully at home in Windermere, FL on May 11, 2026, surrounded by his wife of 33 years, Joanne (Chambers) Costello, and his daughter, Kristen (Daniel) Zimbardi.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Catherine (Costello) Strunk. Jim is survived by his sister, Sharon Ipavec (Ronald) and brother, Robert Costello (Debbie). He also leaves behind a large family of in-laws, nieces, nephews and great-nieces who will dearly miss him. He is also survived by daughter Kristen’s mother, Margaret Costello.

Jim worked in the hospitality renovation and construction industry for over 40 years in both Ohio and Florida in various roles with several companies. In his early years in Cleveland, he was a graduate of St. Joe’s High School, served in the U.S. Army Reserves, enjoyed boating and fishing on Lake Erie and spent many years umpiring and coaching in the Youth Baseball League for Eastlake Girls Softball, also serving as their president for many years.

During his 34 years living in Florida, Jim was an active community member serving as both the Westover Reserve HOA President and Treasurer of the Apopka Vineland Road Landscaping Committee for over 20 years. While living in Westover Reserve, Jim enjoyed being the “Mr. Fix It” for the neighborhood gaining lasting friendships with current and former residents. He also volunteered with Habitat for Humanity and Orange County Pet Alliance doing pet visitations for nursing homes as well as Give Kids The World.

Jim found the most joy being an avid golfer, traveling and spending time on his RV in Titusville and the eastern United States with his wife and their beloved dogs. He enjoyed traveling internationally, including a trip around the world.

He had a deep affection for his golf buddies as well as his Starbucks “coffee klatch” friends, who loved his great sense of humor and quick wit.

Jim’s legacy of dependability and being a man of his word will be carried forward by those who had the privilege of knowing him. He will be greatly missed and forever remembered.

Celebrations of Life will be held in Windermere, Florida, and Cleveland, Ohio in the coming weeks. We invite all who knew and loved Jim to join us in honoring his memory. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you donate to your local animal rescue center or to the American Cancer Society in his honor.