Obituary of Richard J. Costanzo

Richard J Costanzo, born November 29 1936, passed away peacefully on Sunday, October 21, with his loving family by his side. He was the son of the late Joseph and Virginia Fortunato Costanzo and he is survived by his devoted wife of 59 years, Janet, and his four children: Susan Fracker (James), Elizabeth O'Dea (William), Richard Costanzo (Cynthia) and Mark Costanzo.

Richard is also survived by his nine adored grandchildren: Amanda Dempsey (Matthew), Christopher Fracker (Jennifer), Casey O'Dea (Nicole), Amie Marcello (Nick), Julie Fracker (John), Kellie O'Dea (Christian), Kate O'Dea, Ryan and Kirsten Costanzo; two great grandchildren: Tyler Matthew and Jack Richard Dempsey; and one great grandson on the way. His grandchildren cherished their "Papa". He is also survived by his brother Joseph and sister in law Maureen. He is pre-deceased by his brother, Ralph, and his sister, Beverly Vancho.

Mr. Costanzo was a graduate of the University of Connecticut School of Pharmacy. He was a member of Phi Delta Chi, a Professional Fraternity serving the field of Pharmacy; he was the co-owner of Huntington Pharmacy for over thirty years. He later joined Stop & Shop Pharmacy in Shelton for ten years. A respected and admired professional in the community, his loyal customers became friends; his co-workers became family.

Born in Bridgeport, he was a longtime resident of Trumbull before retiring to Oxford several years ago. He enjoyed travel, vacations with family and friends, and capturing wonderful memories on film and video. His passion was making movies and writing stories for his family, friends, and co-workers. Richard's wife, children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren meant the world to him. He was a truly dedicated and much loved family man.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, October 26, 2018 at 11:00 am directly in Saint Jude Parish Church, 707 Monroe Turnpike, Monroe. Friends may greet the family on Thursday from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the Abriola Parkview Funeral Home, 419 White Plains Road, Trumbull. Interment will be private.

The family extends special thanks to Doctor Neal Fischbach and the many wonderful nurses at Smilow.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Smilow Cancer Hospital Care Center, 5520 Park Avenue, Trumbull, CT 06611 or Saint Jude's Children's Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105.