Brian C. Costa, 46, a longtime resident of Keene and formerly of Massachusetts died unexpectedly at home on Thursday, March 9, 2017.
Brian was born the son of the late Anne Marie Costa (Kaleel) and John G. Ward on August 30, 1970, in Fort Meyers, Florida. He was educated in Massachusetts and graduated from Arlington High School class of 1988. Brian continued his education and earned a Bachelor’s of Science in Business Administration from Norwich University in Northfield, Vermont class of 1992. He then went on to attend the New Hampshire Police Academy.
Brian was the Chief of Police for the City of Keene. His influence amongst his peers was respected and admired. He started his carrier on April 15, 1996 as a Police Officer. In 1998 he became a K-9 Officer with his K-9 partner Niko. On August 15, 2004, he was promoted to Corporal. As time progressed he joined the Honor Guard. On December 30, 2005, he became the FTEP Supervisor. Nine months later on September 12, 2006 he joined the Tac Team. Then yet again on March 30, 2008 he was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant. On June 1, 2011, he rose in the ranks to Captain of Operations and on May 30, 2015 he became the Chief of Police for the City of Keene.
On April 25, 2015, Brian exchanged vows with Katherine E. Ruelle after an extended relationship. They were married in a simple service on the beach in Edgartown, Massachusetts with their children, close family and friends in attendance.
He enjoyed being with his kids and family and embraced what everyday life has to offer. His time was spent mentoring and coaching sports in the youth athletic leagues. Brian could be found golfing when time permitted. His family brought him great joy in life. He was a wonderful husband and father. Time was always made for family events and special occasions. He could be found doing various projects with the Elk’s Club in Keene and he was a member of the Norwich University Skull and Swords.
Mr. Costa is survived by his wife, Katherine E. (Ruelle) Costa and his children Cullen J. Costa, Cailyn E. Costa, and Matthew C. Evans, all of Keene. He leaves siblings Richard J. Leslie and his wife Christine of Foxboro, MA.) Michelle M. Rosary and her husband Keith of Hyannis, MA. David R. Costa and his wife Laura of Adrian, MI. Rosanne M. (Costa) Crete of New Bedford, MA. and Katie Ward of Pepperell, MA. He leaves his stepmother, Jean Ward, of Tewksbury, MA. His goddaughter, Destiny M. Ruelle of Keene and his in-laws, David R. Chase and Anna L. Ruelle of Keene and Gary J. Ruelle of Des Moines, IA. He is survived by his former wife and mother of his children, Cheryl (Ober) Costa, of Keene, her mother, Elizebeth Ober and the late David Ober of Franklin, MA. He leaves many cousins, nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews, extended family and numerous friends.
Calling hours will be held on Thursday, March 16, from 5 to 9 pm at the Cheshire Family Funeral Chapel. A police walk-through for all law enforcement officers will start the calling hours at 5 pm with normal visitation to follow. A mass with Christian burial rights will take place on Friday, March 17, 2017, 11 am. at St. Bernard’s Church, 161 Main St. Keene, NH. Burial is to follow at Monadnock View Cemetery, Park Ave. Keene. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Brian C. Costa Memorial Fund, through the Savings Bank of Walpole, P.O. Box 744, Keene, NH. 03431 or any branch location. All services are under the care of Cheshire Family Funeral Chapel and Crematories, 44 Maple Ave. Keene, NH. 03431. www.cheshirefamilyfuneralhome.com
