Dr. John J. Costanzi

Dr. John J. Costanzi of Austin, Texas passed away peacefully at his son’s home on March 20, 2021 at the age of 84 surrounded by those that loved him most. John fought a long courageous battle with Parkinson’s Disease. Our Lord and Savior took him to his eternal home where peace abides and there is no more pain.

John was born in Old Forge, Pennsylvania to Italian immigrants, Giovanni and Natalina Costanzi, on April 25, 1936. He was proceeded in death by his beautiful wife Sweetie Babcock Costanzi, his parents, his sisters Mary, Rose, and Nora, his brother John, his son Mark Costanzi, and stepdaughter Stephanie Heien. He is survived by his son John Julio Costanzi Jr “JJ”, daughter-in-law Shannon Costanzi, and devoted grandchildren, Tanner & Hannah Costanzi. He is also survived by his niece, Betty Bianchino and nephews, Marty & Jerry Weinstock. He leaves behind many close friends and family that were able to visit him in his final days.

Dr. John Costanzi had an inspiring life. Born from Italian immigrants, he had a very close relationship with his parents and his sisters. At a young age of 11, he was a gifted clarinet player in the Scranton Philharmonic Orchestra. Growing up he graduated from Old Forge High School in 1953. He then went on to receive his Biology degree with honors from the University of Scranton. He was a brilliant scholar & received his Medical doctorate from Georgetown Medical School in 1961. After medical school, he enlisted with the Air Force and completed National Security Management, National Defense University, and the Flight Surgeon Aeronautical Course. While enlisted, he completed his residency in Internal Medicine and Fellowship in Hematology/Oncology at Wilford Hall Medical Center. He received many accommodations throughout his 36 years in the Air Force. While based out of Bergstrom Air Force Base, he was the commanding officer for Tactical Clinic Unit 924 with whom he established many lifelong friendships. While continuing his USAF career in the reserves, he continued his medical career and was internationally known in the field of Oncology and Hematology. He was a Professor of Medicine and Director of the Cancer Center at the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston, TX for about 20 years. He then moved to Tennessee and was the Medical Director of the Thompson Cancer Survival Center and Professor of Medicine at the University of Tennessee Medical Center in Knoxville. His final move was to Austin, TX where he owned Texas Oncology with his associate Dr. Mintz until retirement. During his long medical career, he received numerous awards. He was a frequent lecturer and visiting professor throughout the US and abroad. He published more than 120 papers and several books. His military career continued until his retirement as Brigadier General in 1996. He spent his retirement traveling and enjoying time with his family, friends, and his beloved grandchildren.

The family would like to say thank you to the exceptional medical professionals that provided care for Dr. Costanzi. A special thank you to ComFor Care and Hope Hospice of New Braunfels with the very caring nurses and aids that helped to care for him in his final days.

Retired Father Bill Brooks from Dr. Costanzi’s church, St. Theresa Catholic Church, will be officiating the Celebration of Life that is being held Thursday March 25 at Cook -Walden/Capital Parks Mausoleum in Pflugerville, TX.

In lieu of flowers, the family would ask that you donate in his honor to Hope Hospice of New Braunfels, Michael J. Fox Foundation, Wounded Warrior Project, or St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital.

Dr. Costanzi has taken his final flight.