John J. Costello

John J. Costello John J. Costello, 73, passed away on March 15, 2010 with his wife, Cindy by his side after a brief battle with a form of leukemia. John was born on February 12, 1937 to a railroad man and a school teacher in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho. He attended the University of Idaho on a football scholarship and after graduating served as an officer in the United States Navy. Upon completing his tour in 1961, John became a resident of Long Beach, CA where he had a family and lived 49 years. At the same time he began a successful professional career reaching partner at the CPA firm of Arthur Young & Company (later Ernst & Young). His groundbreaking work as a litigation forensic accountant continued for another 15 years with the firms of Gursey, Schneider & Co. LLP and Hemming Morse, Inc. John was twice elected president of Virginia Country Club, served many years on the board of directors at the Jo nathan Club, CalCPA, St. Anthony High School, on the AICPA Council and supporting the Long Beach Symphony. He was a faculty member of the National Judicial College and the campaign treasurer for a California governor and a U.S. congressman. Born to humble beginnings in northern Idaho, John attended 25 Super Bowls, visited all 7 continents, owned thoroughbred race horses and had several holes in one. He is survived by his wife, Cindy; children, John, Jr. (Jenny), Jane (Jay) and Jim; grandsons, John III and J ared; as well as his brother, Bill (Kathy). A celebration of life will be conducted for family, friends and associates. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the Long Beach Symphony.