Salvatore Valentino Costa's Obituary
In Loving Memory of Salvatore Valentino Costa
Early Life and Family
Salvatore Valentino Costa, lovingly known as Sal, was born on February 14, 1929, in Boston, Massachusetts and passed away peacefully on Sunday, September 14th. He was a first-generation American, the youngest of four children born to Frank and Ida Costa, who emigrated from Sicily, Italy. Sal grew up in a close-knit and loving family alongside his sisters, Grace and Virginia, and his brother, Charles.
Military Service and Patriotism
Sal’s education was interrupted when he left high school to serve his country as a paratrooper during World War II. He served honorably in the Pacific theater and was discharged from the Army in December 1947. Continuing his dedication to his country, Sal joined the National Guard, where he served until October 1952. His deep love for his country and passion for world events and history remained with him throughout his life.
Marriage and Family Life
While serving in the National Guard, Sal met Theresa Marie McAlice at a church dance. Their romance blossomed, and they married on October 14, 1950, at St. Patrick’s Church in Roxbury, Massachusetts. Together, they welcomed their first daughter, Theresa, in 1951, followed by a son, Frank, in 1954. In 1956, the family relocated from Boston to sunny San Diego, settling in the Clairemont area. Their family grew again in 1962 with the birth of their daughter, Carol.
Professional Career
Sal began his career as a welder in Boston, working in a wrought iron shop and in the shipyards. Seeking better opportunities, he moved to San Diego and joined Convair / General Dynamics, where he contributed to projects such as the Atlas rocket and cruise missile, among other defense industry work. His work took the family on several assignments to Spokane, Washington; Abilene, Texas; and Roswell, New Mexico, with each assignment lasting about 18 months before returning to San Diego.
Leisure and Community Involvement
During his limited free time, Sal enjoyed fishing, target shooting, and spending time with family and friends. He was a devoted fan of the Red Sox and Patriots and enjoyed following all sports. Sal was also a committed churchgoer, supporting St. Catherine Labouré Catholic Church.
Personality and Legacy
Sal was renowned for his storytelling and sense of humor. His stories, often told with enthusiasm and a touch of exaggeration, left a lasting impression on everyone he met. Friends and family fondly recall him saying, “I swear, the fish was this big,” with arms outstretched and a bright smile.
Retirement and Travels
After retiring, Sal and Theresa traveled extensively, enjoying cruises to Alaska, Mexico, and Hawaii, as well as trips to see family in Boston, Spokane, Las Vegas, and Italy. They delighted in day trips throughout Southern California and visits to local casinos.
Surviving Family
Sal is survived by his 100-year-old sister, Virginia Doering; his children, Theresa Ray, Frank Costa and wife Jan, and Carol Nix and husband Mike; his grandchildren, Bryan Nix and wife Dara, Jamie Price and husband Sean, Tony Nix and wife Christa, Danielle Costa, and Nick Costa; and his great grandchildren, Ryan, Harrison, Madison, Brayden, Paxton, and Nolan.
A Lasting Tribute
Salvatore Valentino Costa will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to family, his zest for life, loyalty, kindness, genuine interest in others, and his infectious sense of humor. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Services
· Viewing and Reception: Tuesday, September 30, 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM at Clairemont Mortuary, 4266 Mount Abernathy Ave, San Diego, CA 92117
· Funeral Mass: Wednesday, October 1, 11:00 AM at St. Catherine Labouré Catholic Church, 4124 Mt. Abraham Ave, San Diego, CA 92111
· Graveside Services with Military Honors: Wednesday, October 1, 1:00 PM at El Camino Memorial Park, 5600 Carroll Canyon Rd, San Diego, CA 92121
In Lieu of Flowers
In place of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Sal’s favorite charity, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital at https://www.stjude.org.
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