Rev. Frank Bartholomew Costello SJ

Fr. Frank Costello, SJ, died May 23, 2016 at the Sacred Heart Jesuit Center Infirmary in Los Gatos, CA. He was 94. A professor of political science and law, mentor, confidant and advisor to the esteemed and lowly, priest and friend to countless people of diverse faith and religion, son, brother and uncle: these and many other titles reflect a man of deep faith and whose love for God and neighbor was legendary.

The fourth of seven children, Frank Bartholomew Costello, Jr., was born on June 12, 1921, in Spokane to Francis B. and Catherine O. (McDermott) Costello. Frank graduated from Gonzaga H.S. in 1939; intrigued by his older brother Bill’s vocation to the Jesuits and having a faith nourished by his devout Catholic family Fr. Costello entered the Jesuit Novitiate at Sheridan, OR, in August 1939. He followed the regular course of Jesuit formation studies and teaching experiences and was ordained a priest on June 21, 1952, in Spokane.

Though a deeply humble man, Fr. Costello was destined to occupy the world of higher education and to leave a lasting impression on his students, colleagues and people in positions of authority. Completing his PhD (Political Science) from Georgetown University in 1959, he spent 11 years at Seattle University as a professor and administrator (Academic & Executive Vice-President). Transferring to Gonzaga University in 1970, Fr. Costello undertook nearly the same roles until his full retirement in 2001. He also was the rector of the university Jesuits (1980-86) and the high school Jesuits (1986-88). Though retired Fr. Costello maintained a huge correspondence with people by phone and mail—his annual Christmas card list was over 750 separate entries. A significant stroke in 2012 placed him in the Jesuit Infirmary; yet even then he continued his outreach to others. As his health continued to decline Fr. Costello transferred to the Jesuit Infirmary in Los Gatos, CA in April 2015.

One of his favorite events of the year was the annual St. Patrick’s Day Party. Begun in Florence, Italy, on his sabbatical, Fr. Costello gathered a group of Gonzaga students studying there who pined for a celebration of their favorite saint. This event quickly grew in size and reputation—several restaurants declining a return engagement—but it brought people together in a joyful way.

The last of his siblings to pass away, Fr. Costello is survived by several nieces and nephews, their children, and many cousins. He was preceded in death by his brothers Rev. William Costello, SJ and J.J. (Joe) Costello, and his sisters Mother Mary Michael Costello, FSE, Catherine Costello, Helen Petrich and Therese Hauer. He will be deeply missed by his many friends, former students, colleagues, and brother Jesuits of the Oregon Province.

A vigil service will be held Tuesday, May 31, at 7:00pm in the Jesuit House Chapel, Gonzaga University, Spokane, WA. The funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10:30am, Wednesday, June 1, at St. Aloysius Church, 330 E. Boone Ave., Spokane. The interment will be at 2:00pm, Wednesday, June 1, at Mt. St. Michaels Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be sent to: Gonzaga University, Attention University Advancement, Thomas Jefferson Endowed Scholarship Fund, 502 E. Boone Ave., Spokane, WA 99258-0098. Memorials may also be contributed to the Senior Jesuit Fund, Oregon Province of the Society of Jesus, P.O. Box 86010, Portland, Ore., 97286.