Stephen M. Costello

Stephen Mark Costello was called to eternal life on November 27, 2014. He was 58 years old. Stephen was born on September 5, 1956 in Houston, Texas. He was the third and youngest child of Mark and Norma Costello who preceded him in death.

Stephen received most of his elementary education at St. Thomas More in Houston and then attended St. Thomas High School. He graduated from the University of St. Thomas with a B.B.A. in Accounting. His early professional life was focused on the food & beverage industry serving as an area manager for Horlock Beverage Co. and then Stop ‘N Go stores. While still in this industry Stephen began to pursue his interest in basketball by becoming a referee. Over the ensuing years he refereed high school, college and minor professional league games. As his referee career progressed he dedicated his time to mentoring younger referees. He also started working with the statistics crew for the Houston Rockets where he made many lifelong friends. Highlights included traveling with the team to Mexico, Japan and China as well as the Rockets’ NBA championship seasons of 1994 and 1995. In the last several years Stephen served as a referee observer for the NBA and several college conferences.

Stephen lived his Catholic faith in service and charity to others. He was a member of St. Francis de Sales parish where he served as an acolyte. He also was a lector for the celebration of Holy Mass. Stephen selflessly gave of his time to assist those in need whether they be family, friends, those in his church or complete strangers where he recognized a manner in which he could help. Stephen truly recognized Christ in his fellow man.

Stephen was very intelligent and astute. He was a quiet, humble man but his dry sense of humor was always prepared. He loved to travel, both domestically and internationally. His favorite destination was Scottsdale, Arizona. He also was a lover of animals, particularly Labrador Retrievers. He enjoyed many years with his Labradors, Barney and Skeet.

In honor of Stephen’s life reach out and help someone in need.

Stephen is survived by his brother Richard L. Costello and his wife Marie, his sister Nancy Jean Schmitt and her husband Mike and his beloved niece Kendall Rae Schmitt. The vigil for Stephen will be held from 6 -8 PM, Tuesday, December 2, 2014 at St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church, 8200 Roos Road. A Rosary will be recited at 7 PM. The Mass of Christian Burial will also be at St. Francis de Sales at 10 AM Wednesday, December 3, 2014 with Reverend Wayne Wilkerson celebrant. Interment will follow at Memorial Oaks Cemetery.