Jonathon Liedtke – ourWindsor.ca – Dec. 10, 2012
Windsor has lost a “true servant of the people” in the loss of Windsor Police Chaplain Rev. Jack Costello according to Police Chief Al Frederick.
Costello, who had served with the Windsor Police Service (WPS) since 1988, had recently performed the Benediction at the official Swearing In Ceremony of Chief Frederick, and Deputies Power and Derus respectively.
“He was a gentleman and a true servant of the people in this community,” commented Chief Frederick, adding, “especially the Windsor Police Service, and we’re going to miss him.”
Born in Dublin Ontario, Costello, who was 67, passed away yesterday morning and spent 42 years of his life dedicated to both the priesthood and serving the community.
“We are heartbroken and are suffering a great loss for our community and faith.” commented The Pastoral Team of Sacred Heart Roman Catholic Parish where Costello served as Pastor.
The Windsor Police Service posted condolences on their Facebook page and community members took to the forum to comment upon his service.
Ranging from sympathy directed towards his family and positive reminders of his life, the sentiment of those posting is that he will be missed greatly.
Costello was known for his love of hockey and dedication to a life of service to both the Church and the community at large.
“I’ve known [Father] Costello for many years, as he is a family friend and was the priest who oversaw 3 of my sacraments,” commented Facebook user Lisa V., adding, “He will be remembered not only for his service to the church but also for his quick wit and his love of hockey and golf. RIP Fr. Costello. You will be greatly missed.”
Chief Frederick explained that the emotional state of the WPS is one of “shock and it’s a great loss. Everybody has been impacted in different ways because he impacted our lives in such different manners…we’re all going to miss him.”
“He was involved with us as Chaplain for about 25 years, and in that time, he’s grown in his role here, and he’s provided his service in whatever capacity was required at the time,” said Fredericks, adding, “Whether it was a prayer, offering support, or a benediction, he was always there, and he was a true friend of so many of us.”
Visitation will be held at Families First Funeral Home on Dougall Ave on Saturday from 7pm to 9pm and Sunday 2pm to 9pm at Sacred Heart with a Vigil Service scheduled for 8pm.
The funeral service has been scheduled for 11am on Monday.
Windsor Police Chaplain to be Missed by Community (ourwindsor.ca)
Jonathon Liedtke is the Features & Opinion Editor for the University of Windsor Lance Campus/Community Newspaper and a reporter for ourWindsor.ca. As a founding member and current Co-Chair of the Mayor’s Youth Advisory Committee, he is committed to representing, connecting, engaging with and advocating for local youth. He is also a member of Windsor’s “Punk with Horns” band The Nefidovs, and as such, is committed to enhancing and sustaining the arts community.
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