Very Rev. PATRICK CANON COSTELLO

Father Paddy Costello, who died on April 8 was a popular priest, teacher and friend to many. Originally from Garbally, Menlough, he was educated at St. Jarlath's College in Tuam and went on to train for the priesthood at Maynooth Seminary.

He was ordained in 1956 and after a brief ministry in Kildare, he was appointed chaplain to Holy Rosary College, Mountbellew. He taught there for 25 years and worked strenuously alongside the Sisters of the Christian Retreat on behalf of the school and its pupils. Together with the Sisters, management and staff he helped to expand the pupil enrolment and grow the reputation of the school.

In 1981 he joined the Tuam Mission to Zambia where he ministered in a township near Ndola and built a church which became a vibrant centre for the people. On his return he was appointed to Lecanvey, Co. Mayo and in 1989 he became Parish Priest of Kilconly where he remained until his retirement in 2005. As well as his pastoral work he devoted enormous time and energy to community projects in both parishes - including the refurbishment of the church at the summit of Croagh Patrick and the building of a community centre and shrine in Kilconly. He was appointed Canon in 2000.

All his life Fr. Costello was a keen sportsman and a passionate follower of all sports. He played football for the county in the 1950s and played in the All Ireland Semi Final against Kerry in Croke Park in 1954. During his years at Holy Rosary College he trained numerous school teams. He was a keen golfer and when he retired to Mountbellew in 2005 he enjoyed many rounds with old friends while his health permitted.

Following his ordination in 1956, Fr Costello returned home to his local church in Skehana to celebrate his first Mass. He maintained close links throughout his life with his home parish and was respected and fondly regarded by neighbours and friends.

He was especially close to his brothers and sisters and much loved by his 17 nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his brothers Tommy (Garbally), Frank (New Inn) and John (Athy). Fr Costello is survived by his brother Martin Joe (Sligo), his sisters Anne Jones (New York) and Moira O'Shaughnessy (Kildare), his sisters-in-law, brother-in-law, nieces, nephews and extended family.

Courtesy of The Tuam Herald. Tweet

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