Gerard “Jerry” Costello

Gerard “Jerry” Costello
WILMINGTON - Gerard “Jerry” Martin Costello, 81, died on May 16 after a heroic battle with cancer.
Born in 1939 in Boston, 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, Mr. Costello 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 his wit, humor, and masterful storytelling. Ever the entertainer, he regaled all who graced the bar with jocose tales that will echo into eternity.
An avid collector of antiques, he 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  requested one for display and true to his generous spirit, he agreed.
Beyond collecting, Mr. Costello 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.
He leaves his beloved wife of 47 years, Kathleen, their daughter Dr. Erin Costello Wecker, and son-in-law Ross Wecker. He was preceded in death by his cherished son, Michael Kellam Costello.
A celebration of life will take place on June 26 at 2 pm at his residence, 213 Haynes Road, Wilmington. In lieu of flower donations in honor of Jerry Costello may be made to the COS Fund, PO Box 326, Wilmington, VT 05363 or the Guy Hawkins Cancer Relief Fund, 45 Route 100 North, West Dover, VT 05356.