David Costello

Freeport – David Costello, 77, passed away on January 25, 2026, in Portland. David was born on November 28, 1948, in Lowell, MA, son of the late Clement Costello and Margaret (McPadden) Ireland.

David grew up in Lowell, and attended a boarding school in Switzerland during his formative years, where he learned to speak French. He later attended Buxton School in Williamstown, MA, and he furthered his Education at Boston University, then later pursued an art degree at San Francisco Art Institute.

He worked as the art director for his father, the owner of the Lowell Sun newspaper, where he was able to showcase his creativity through his cartoons. This lead to him starting his business, Artoons, where his graphic arts and sense of humor flourished. His work transitioned to more spiritual, Christian based art, and then in his more recent years after moving to Maine, his more prominent work featured beautiful landscapes inspired by his surroundings.

David met, Jeanne, his wife of 50 years, in France when he was visiting his mother. It was love at first sight when she walked in to a party barefoot, and the rest is history. They travelled worldwide in their time together with incredible stories to match, and the legacy of their love, and commitment only grew with time.

One of his favorite hobbies was sailing, and he and his wife enjoyed time in nature, random day trips, spending time with family, puzzles, eating and cooking delicious food, and most of all time with each other.

David was a kind hearted, deeply loving man. He truly loved people, especially his family. He was an incredible husband, father, friend, and all around human being. He was extremely generous, spiritual, and was always there to listen or talk. Even in the toughest of times, especially then, he always kept his sense of humor – which he was famous for.

David will be deeply missed, and the impact he made in whomever he met will leave a lasting impression.

David was predeceased by his sister, Antonia Costello. He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Jeanne (Gonnet) Costello; daughters, Olivia Mariani and her fiancé, Rob Leskowsky, Isabelle and Julia Costello; grandchildren, Antonia Mariani, Maggie and Liam Donaldson; and many beloved extended family members.

Family and friends are invited to visit from 4pm – 5pm on Friday, January 30, 2026, at the new Conroy-Tully Walker Cremation, Funeral & Gathering Center, 300 Allen Avenue, Portland; a Celebration of Life will begin at 5pm.