John Aloysius Costigan - Obituary

aj. John A. Costigan, Jr., USA (Ret.) On November 25, 2016, surrounded by family, John died peacefully at his Annapolis home after a brave battle with brain cancer. Beloved husband of the late Cheryl (Duncan) and the late Joan (Manion); father of John III, Joseph, and Janet; step-father to Lynn, Michael, and Joseph Deavers; grandfather to Eli and Vera, Cora Getz, and Saleena Titus; son of the late John Sr. and the late Helen (Cwikla); brother to Barbara Runkle and Eileen Grafenstine; father-in-law to Noah Getz, Kristin (Von Kundra), Tina (Romo-Leroux), and Chris Walker. Born and raised in Philadelphia, where he was known as Jack in childhood, he graduated from the University of Scranton (B.S.) and from the University of Southern California (M.S.). An avid runner and athlete, he completed numerous marathons and ultra-marathons, as well as the grueling Escape from Alcatraz Triathlon. He enjoyed golfing, traveling, and doting on his family. He served his country as a Ranger-qualified Infantry officer in the US Army for 20 years before retiring at the rank of Major. He was awarded the Meritorious Service Medal by President Clinton on April 18, 1994. The values instilled in him by his service will live on through his children. John was generous, brave, as strong and tough as they come, and a true gentleman. He will be deeply missed and forever loved. Friends may call at the George P. Kalas Funeral Home, 2973 Solomon Island Rd, Edgewater, MD, near Annapolis, MD, at noon on Saturday, December 3rd, for a viewing, followed by a service at 1pm. He will be interred in Arlington National Cemetery at a later date in a private ceremony. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Lead The Way Fund, P.O. Box 281, Manhasset, NY 11030.