Gerard "Jerry" Martin Costello

Gerard “Jerry” Martin Costello died on May 16th after a heroic battle with cancer. He was 81 and lived in Wilmington, Vermont. Born in 1939 in Boston, Massachusetts, he graduated from Cohasset High School in 1957 and in the same year enlisted in the US Navy where he served as a submariner. His active duty included maneuvers during the Cuban Missile Crisis. Upon honorable discharge, he moved to Vermont where he began a life of adventure. In 1973, he married his anam cara and one true love, Kathleen Dougherty, and together they revived the defunct Funky Mary’s Lounge into Deacon’s Den, a world-renowned institution of après ski culture and a hub of the Mount Snow community. The adored tavern was elevated to the status of legendary due to Jerry’s wit, humor, and masterful storytelling. Ever the entertainer, Jerry regaled all who graced the bar with jacose tales that will echo into eternity. An avid collector of antiques, Jerry could often be found with a truck loaded to the sky with treasures. One of his more remarkable finds was a set of Dentzel reindeer that were used as part of a Christmas display in New York City’s Central Park. So remarkable were the carvings that the Shelburne Museum (VT) requested one for display and true to his generous spirit, Jerry agreed. Beyond collecting, Jerry was also a successful inventor securing multiple utility and design patents. One of his most prolific inventions was the Store and Pour bottle, which can still be seen in restaurants, bars, and grocery stores globally. Jerry leaves his beloved wife of 47-years, Kathleen, their daughter Dr. Erin Costello Wecker, and son-in-law Ross Wecker. He was predeceased by his cherished son, Michael Kellam Costello. A celebration of Jerry’s life will take place on June 26th at 2:00 p.m. at his residence, 213 Haynes Road, Wilmington, VT. In lieu of flowers, donations in honor of Jerry may be made to the COS Fund, P.O. Box 326, Wilmington, VT 05363 or the Guy Hawkins Cancer Relief Fund, 45 Route 100 North, West Dover, VT 05356.