"Susan and Family, I am very sorry about the death of your mom. It's so hard to lose your mother, no matter your age. I will always miss mine, as I know you will miss yours. I send my condolences. Susie Hall Alberts"
In loving memory of
M. Elaine Costello
January 22, 1918 - March 11, 2016
Margaret Elaine (Longinaker) Costello, youngest child of Leander Oscar and Fannie Irene (Tyner) Longinaker, was born on January 22, 1918, at the family home a mile east of Randolph, Iowa. She died after a short stay at Elm Heights Care Center in Shenandoah, Iowa, on March 11, 2016. Elaine graduated from Randolph High School in 1935. She was honored at her 80th class reunion in 2015.
On June 27, 1943, Elaine married Ralph Costello at her parents' home. Following their marriage they lived in Denver, Colorado, where Ralph was engaged in Naval Construction. In December they returned to Iowa to begin farming. In 1944 they moved to their present home north of Randolph where Elaine lived for more than 70 years. They had three children, Dick, Sara, and Susan.
Elaine was a lifelong member of the Randolph Presbyterian Church, faithfully served as pianist for many years, and was a member of Ladies Aid. She also gave piano lessons to neighborhood children. She was active in the Randolph Order of the Eastern Star and served on the Advisory Board for the Tabor Order of Rainbow for Girls. Elaine was a leader of the Riverside Wrens 4-H Club. She enjoyed sewing clothing for her girls and herself. She and Ralph were active in the Fremont County Republican Party. They spent many hours at auctions, buying antiques for their home and small store in Randolph. She belonged to the Antique Study Club in Shenandoah. Elaine volunteered at Elm Heights Care Center in Shenandoah, helping with activities for the residents. She enjoyed reading, music, her garden and flowers, her friends and family, and being a farm wife.
Preceding her in death were her parents; her husband Ralph; her brothers Roy, Maurice, and Woodrow Longinaker, and her sister Wilma Ross; infant granddaughter Jennifer Costello; and son-in-law Ronald McKinney.
She is survived by her son Richard (Catherine ) Costello of Randolph, IA; daughter Sara McKinney of Bemidji, MN; daughter Susan Costello of Randolph, IA, and friend Gary Murray of College Springs, IA; 8 grandchildren : Lori Costello of College Station, TX; Lisa Costello (Aaron Rebarcek) of Farragut, IA; Joey (Dana) Chavez of Omaha, NE; Christina Campos of Albuquerque, NM; Mark (Janel) McKinney of Underwood, IA; Todd (Tamra) McKinney of Persia, IA; Shannon (Mark) Machacek of Westmont, IL; Matthew (Michele) McKinney of Chanhassen, MN; 23 great-grandchildren; 5 great great grandchildren, numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.
Elaine is now a star in the evening sky so "When you wish upon a star," please remember her.
In lieu of flowers memorials may be directed to the Randolph Library or the Randolph Fire and Rescue.
Burial will be held at the Randolph Cemetery in Randolph, Iowa.
Tributes
"We were so sorry to hear about your mother and grandmother. She was a special lady who gave happiness to those around her. The town of Randolph owes her a real debt of gratitude. She will be missed."
"To the Kirchert grand kids sorry to see that your grandma has passed away. Just letting you know I am thinking about you. Your cousin Teresa Kirchert Reitzler, your mom's cousin"
"Susan - my thoughts and prayers are with you. I know this is a really tough time, even when you know it is for the best. May God hold you in the palm of His hand during this time, keeping you safe and giving you comfort. My sympathies. "
"Sara, Susan and Dick, my prayers are with you at this sad time. Growing up, I felt like we were all family and I have so many wonderful memories of those times. Know how much we all loved Elaine. Bev Doss-Rivers "
"Susan and Dick.......... So sorry for the loss of your mother. My prayers are with you....."
"Susan and Dick.......... So sorry for the loss of your mother. My prayers are with you....."
"So sorry to hear about your Mom, Susan......many great memories you have!! xxoo "
"Susan & Dick, I was so sorry to hear of Elaine's passing. She was such a sweet lady. I enjoyed going to her house for dinner close to 45 years ago. She always knew me when I would meet her in the parking lot of Wal Mart, or in the bank. She lived a long and wonderful life. Our prayers go out to you and your families. Hugs Susan, I know you will miss her. Tom & Sue"