CNBNews

Gene C. Costa, age 81, of Runnemede, NJ, passed away peacefully at home on July 28^th, 2010 surrounded by his loving family and caring friends after a long and courageous battle with emphysema/COPD. Survived by his Beloved and Devoted companion of 25 years, Jo Ann (Wrysec), adoring stepfather to Stephanie and Todd Cerminaro, and father of Denise C. Durkin (Tom), and Dr. Richard C. Costa. Predeceased by his former wife, Nancy A. (Van Doren) Costa, Brother Ralph Costa, Sister Eleanor Sullivan, Sister-In-Laws Mary Jane O’Donnell, Bobi Ryan, Jeri Benson, Sheila Ryan, and cherished Grandson David S. Durkin. Much loved grandfather to Pamela A. Durkin, Jennifer L. Aiken (Andy), Lauren M. DeLucas (Dennis), Richard Costa Jr., Philip Costa, Athena Kokoronis, Giavonna Emma, Nicklas Gene, and Ava Jo Cerminaro. Great Grandfather of Shawn Durkin and Emily Durkin. Dear brother of Robert Costa (Rosetta) of South Carolina, Sister-In-Law Mary Jane D’Ancona (Frank D’Ancona), and Sister-In-Laws Peggy Ryan and Angie Cerminaro. Adored by many nieces, nephews, and treasured friends.

Gene was born and raised in Glassboro, NJ, and graduated from Glassboro High School’s Class of 1947. As a young man, he worked at his father’s Esso Gas Station. His passion for the business world along with his love of automobiles, led him to become the owner of Costa Motor Sales. Some of his many business ventures included the creation of the first “South Jersey Message Center” service system in South Jersey; the Glassboro Answering Service and the Woodbury Answering Service. Throughout his life he was employed at many Dealerships throughout the entire South Jersey area. Even after his retirement in 1991, his insatiable desire to work, led him to continue on in the Car Business. He was currently owner of Gene Costa Distributors, “Hub Cap People.” Gene was an avid gardener, and always took pride in his landscaping accomplishments. He loved watching TV, playing cards, and was a true Philadelphia Sports Fan. He thoroughly enjoyed playing the “One-Armed Bandit” at any nearby casino! Throughout his battle, he never complained and his sense of humor was always evident and appreciated by all who touched his life. “How’s work?” was a familiar greeting to all! He will truly be missed! At the request of the family, funeral services will be private.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend his celebration luncheon on Saturday, July 31, 2010 from 1 PM to 5 PM at Masso’s, 210 South Delsea Drive, Glassboro, NJ. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to be made in Gene’s memory to COPD Foundation: 2937 SW 27th Ave, Suite 302, Miami, FL 33133 or to Compassionate Care Hospice Foundation: 11 Independence Way, Newark, DE 19713. Please write in memo: Gene C. Costa. Expressions of sympathy can be e-mailed to the family through our funeral home website www.mccannhealey.com under online obituaries of Gene C. Costa. Funeral Arrangements and Inquiries through: McCANN-HEALEY FUNERAL HOME: 851 Monmouth Street, Gloucester City. Ph: 856-456-1142