Philip W. Costello, Sr. 1919-2009 CHICOPEE - Philip W. Costello Sr., 89, passed away peacefully in his sleep Monday, June 9th, 2009. Philip was born July 7th, 1919 in Springfield, a son of the late Thomas J. Costello Sr. and Katherine (O'Brien) Costello. Philip was just a few days short of his 90th birthday which was a milestone he sought after. His first love was spending his summers growing up in the area presently known as the Quabbin Reservoir. Philip was a graduate of Springfield Classical High School, Class of 1938. He enlisted in the Marine Corps, Aviation Wing, and served in the Philippine Islands during World War II. Upon discharge, Philip returned to Springfield and partnered with his brother, Thomas Jr. and brother in law, Francis O'Brien in the insurance business. He went onto operate his own business as an independent agent, until his retirement in 1988. In 1955 Philip was first appointed to the Springfield Housing Authority. He then became chairman of the Springfield Redevelopment Authority in 1958; appointed by Mayor Thomas J. O'Connor. He donated his time and energy for the change and improvement of the city of Springfield. In 1965 with the encouragement of Congressman Edward Boland, he formed the Springfield Hobby Club Housing. His goal was adequate low income housing for elderly and handicapped residents of Springfield. Independent Housing 1 & 2, Inc., a private non-profit organization which Mr. Costello served as president for the last 40 years constructed the Springfield Seniority House, the Independence House and more recently the Costello House which was named after Mr. Costello; an honor for which he was truly pleased. Philip is survived by, and will be forever missed, by his wife of 62 years, Geraldine (Shea) Costello; daughter, Maureen and her husband, Rick Normand of East Longmeadow; a son, Philip Jr. and his wife, Melinda Costello of South Hadley. Philip is also survived by grandchildren, Rick Normand Jr. of San Diego, CA, Billy Normand of South Hadley, Kate Normand of Tempe, AZ, Matt Normand of East Longmeadow, Ryan Costello of Washington D.C., Michael Costello of Atlanta, GA, Meghan Costello of Agawam and great grandson, "Jayden" of Tempe, AZ. He also leaves several nieces and nephews. Philip was predeceased by his brother, Thomas J. Costello Jr. and sister, Grace (Costello) Shepardson. Funeral ceremonies will be held on Monday from the Byron Keenan Funeral Home and Cremation Tribute Center, 1858 Allen St., Springfield. Relatives and friends are invited to assemble in the f unreal home by 8:45 AM. A procession will form and leave the funeral home by 9:15 AM and proceed to Sacred Heart Church, 395 Chestnut Street, Springfield, for a con-celebrated Liturgy of Christian Burial, at 10:00 AM. Burial with military honor will follow in the Massachusetts Veterans' Memorial Cemetery, Agawam. Calling hours will take place, in the funeral home, on Sunday from 4:00 PM until 7:00 PM. In lieu of flowers the family has asked that donations be made to the Children's Miracle Network c/o Baystate Health Foundation, 280 Chestnut St., Springfield, MA 01199.