Joseph P. Costello was born in Brooklyn, New York, on June 25, 1943. He lived in Brooklyn until 1972, when he married and moved with his wife to Long Island. From as far back as anyone can remember, Joe dreamed of becoming a firefighter. That dream came true when he was appointed to the FDNY in January 1968, a moment that filled him with pride as he became part of the brotherhood of New York’s Bravest.

He was assigned to Battalion 58/Engine 310/Ladder 174, known as “Snyder Island,” located in East Flatbush, Brooklyn. On May 15, 1972, Joe was awarded a Class III Medal for heroism after rescuing four children and their aunt from a burning apartment building, one of many acts that reflected his courage and deep sense of duty.

After 20 years of service, Joe became a chief’s aide, and the 58 Battalion was relocated to a firehouse in Canarsie, Brooklyn. He served there until his retirement, completing an impressive 33-year career with the FDNY. Joe also served honorably in the Air National Guard for 18 years, further exemplifying his lifelong commitment to protecting others and serving his country.

Following the September 11 attacks, Joe took part in the rescue and recovery efforts at Ground Zero, working tirelessly for several months at the site. Shortly after his retirement in 2002, he was diagnosed with 9/11-related cancer and passed away at home on January 3, 2006. He faced his final battle with the same bravery he had shown throughout his life and career.

Joe was more than a firefighter. He was kind, funny, generous, and a devoted animal lover. He had a gift for fixing and building anything and spent much of his time outside the firehouse improving his family home and rescuing stray animals. Always ready to lend a hand, Joe brought warmth and laughter wherever he went. To know him was to love him. He had the ability to make friends wherever he went. He was a loving husband and an extraordinary father to his two daughters.

When asked when he would retire, Joe would always reply, “I love my job. Why would I retire?” He lived his life to the fullest and touched countless lives with his humor, compassion, and strength.

Joe is missed every single day by those who loved him, and his legacy of service, love, and courage will never be forgotten.