Joseph Benito Costa, affectionately known as Babe, peacefully passed away on Thursday, June 1st, at his residence in Penn Hills at the age of 88. He is survived by his three children: Gina (Anthony) Calabro, Marla (Joseph) Adamchik, and Joseph C. Costa, along with his cherished grandchildren, Alaina, Victoria, Sara, Abby, Katie, Joey, and Izzy, as well as his great-grandchild, Ace. Additionally, he is survived by his sister, Carmella Leonette, and his partner, Dee Dee Olive. Joe was preceded in death by his loving wife of 50 years, Geraldine (DeLuca) Costa, his brother Thomas, and his sisters Rose Marano and Anita Biro.

Born on January 18, 1935, in Pittsburgh to Joseph Costa and Michalina (Ionadi) Costa, Joe's passion for music was evident during his time in the U.S. Navy, where he performed as part of a vocal group for the troops. After his military service, Joe and Geri settled in Pittsburgh, where he worked for the City of Pittsburgh. During the early years of their marriage, Joe had the opportunity to record with DOT Records, fueling his lifelong love for music. Although his recording career didn't take off as he had hoped, he continued as the lead singer of a local group called the Contenters, who performed throughout Pittsburgh in the 1960s and early 1970s. Joe was a creative soul who also enjoyed painting and self-published a book titled "Paying Their Dues," a project he started with his wife and completed after her passing.

In addition to his artistic pursuits, Joe was an accomplished athlete. He played and coached basketball and little league, but golf held a special place in his heart. Whenever the weather permitted, he could be found at the driving range, on the golf course, or sharing his knowledge as a golf instructor at Green Oaks Country Club.

Friends and relatives are invited to pay their respects at the BURKET-TRUBY FUNERAL HOME CREMATION AND ALTERNATIVE SERVICES, INC., located at 421 Allegheny Ave., Oakmont, PA 15139, on Monday, June 5th, from 12 noon to 6 p.m. A Celebration of Life will take place at 5:30 p.m. in the funeral home.

Should you wish to honor Joe's memory, donations can be made in his name to The American Cancer Society or Bridges Hospice of Monroeville.