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A. Victor Costa A. Victor Costa
In Memory of
A. Victor
Costa
1927 - 2018
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Condolences

Condolence From: Charles Carleta
Condolence: The Vic Costa I knew was someone whose legacies are worthy of being remembered by more than just his family and friends. He was the kind of very accomplished person no one writes about anymore: he was kind, ethical, caring, polished and polite. He was unconditionally and openly devoted to God as well as to his wife, his son and family, his siblings, and his friends.
I knew him first and foremost as just an awesome friend. Our relationship began sometime in the seventies when both of us were activists on behalf of the City of Troy. The success of Troy meant a lot to him. Vic was a businessman whose innovations helped change the wedding industry locally. In today’s jargon, his ideas would have been described as “disruptive”. He would travel to trade shows, especially in New York City, and then bring his version of new concepts and techniques here to the Capital Region. His wedding shows were unique at the time and he and Shirley Ellett became the core of a formidable team. If you look now at the marketing efforts surrounding wedding planning, “the rest is history”. Well, Vic Costa initiated that locally; right from his beloved downtown Troy.
When you spent time with Vic, you were never far from the successes of his family. We all heard of Jo’s love and never-ending support. We would often chide him with examples of how she put up with him. We all participated in David’s many successes, and those of his spectacular wife, Anne, not to mention her own family. The real show-stoppers however, were Angeline and Jacob. There was no question that these two were God’s gifts not only to the Costa family, but to the rest of us as well. As we have come to watch these two energetic and thoughtful children grow in our midst, it turns out he was right.
Victor had many interests; and they were as eclectic as you might expect from a modern Renaissance Man.
He had a devotion to the success of St. Anthony’s Church in Troy and its Franciscan community that he unabashedly shared with all. Every Friar, deacon and other supporter of St. Anthony’s was to be supported in any way possible. It didn’t seem to matter whether he occasionally disagreed with them or not. They were after all the successors to St. Francis despite the fact that, in their humanity, they might disagree with Vic on some mundane point. Listening to him balance respect for core values with disagreement as to how others might apply them, was a moment to be cherished. The simple rare truth was that he openly cared about his relationship with God and His people and was ready and willing to do his share to make it all better.
Vic was passionate about the success of the New York State Rifle and Pistol Association. He happily devoted countless hours and resources to its success. Close friends he cared deeply about were from amongst its members and included hunters, shooters, collectors and environmentalists. He believed in and fostered the camaraderie and professionalism that emanated from the care and good will demonstrated by the many clubs and organizations that made up the body of the group. From this also emanated an abiding respect and unbridled support for the men and women that made up the law enforcement communities within our region and the state.
Victor Costa was also one of the few businessmen I knew who deeply appreciated union membership and the balance it needed to make with the rights and responsibilities of management. From his vast experience within the ranks of CSEA to his interactions with those entrusted with political management of the various levels of our governments, he consistently demonstrated a depth of knowledge of issues as well as empathy with the leadership of each side charged with making it all work.
In all, we lost a good man; a thoughtful leader; a charming, contributing citizen, and a wonderful role model and friend. I miss him already.

Charles F. Carletta, Sr.

Sunday March 25, 2018
Condolence From: Rita Thompson
Condolence: I have never met a nicer man than "Vic". A gentlemen always, and a heart bigger than himself. Condolences to his family, and his dear friend Shirley. Thoughts and prayers, may he rest in peace.
Sunday March 25, 2018
Condolence From: Kathy Gardner
Condolence: So very sorry to hear of Vic's passing. Prayers for his family.
Friday March 23, 2018
Condolence From: Paatty Jones
Condolence: What an amazing human being! I used to work for Mr. Costa because he gave me a chance as a young woman. I also lived in the house (that he owned) next door to his -- again, as he was trying to help me establish myself in the real world and in life! I am forever grateful for having known such an amazing, funny, hard working, individual. I considered him a friend, a mentor and even a Dad...thank you for making my life better. I will miss you -- with so much love,

Patty
Friday March 23, 2018
Condolence From: Maribeth Greene Pekrol
Condolence: To the Family and Friends of Mr. Costa: I met Mr. Costa many years ago thru Shirley and my Mom who all worked at WCB. All my wedding materials came from his store in 1968 and continued with my daughter's years later. Each customer was given individual attention. It was a delight to visit the store. He never forgot my Mom (he came to visit her in nursing home). Please accept my deepest sympathy.
Friday March 23, 2018
Condolence From: Jacob Rieper
Condolence: Thanks for all you've done. It was a pleasure working with you and Henry. Peace.
Friday March 23, 2018
Condolence From: Doreen Costa
Condolence: Dearest Aunt Jo, David, Anne, and to all the family...my condolences to you! Uncle Vic will be remembered for all the wonderful things he has done and for being a wonderful man! I always remember my Godfather, Uncle Vic, sending me flowers when I was a little girl. It made me feel special. I remember him as a fun-loving and joyful man! I recall when he was dressed up in a white suit at one of our family events looking sharp and full of life! Remember all the good memories that you have of him. I’m sure they will lift your spirits through the difficult times and bring a smile to your faces. Sending peace and my love to all of you!
Thursday March 22, 2018
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