Catherine G. (McAlpin) Costa, age 84, passed away on Thursday, July 7, 2022, at Lehigh Valley Hospital- Hazleton. Born in Philadelphia on January 22, 1938, she was a daughter of the late Elmer and Gertrude (Kramer) McAlpin.
She was raised and educated in South Philadelphia. She met the love of her life and best friend, John A Costa, Sr, while he was stationed in the area, and they were married in 1963. Catherine was a dedicated military wife, moving with him and supporting him throughout his 20-year military career. After his retirement, they settled in Hollenback Township, where they raised their children. John passed away in 2014 after 51 years of marriage.
She enjoyed dancing with her husband, an activity that gave them a special connection. Catherine loved every holiday, but especially the Christmas season. She filled the house with decorations and enjoyed cooking an elaborate Christmas Eve dinner for her family. New Year’s Day there was always a huge pot of soup and fresh bread ready for family and friends to stop by, a tradition from her childhood of watching the Mummer’s Parade in South Philadelphia.
She was a devoted mother and will be greatly missed by her. daughters, Cathy Moyer and husband Gary, Nescopeck; Sherrie Ryan and husband Frank, Lebanon; Kelli Costa and husband Jeff Jones, Mountain Top; son, John Costa Jr and wife Miranda, Hobbie. She also leaves behind cherished grandchildren, Sherri Moyer and fiancée Michelle; Gary Moyer Jr and fiancée Heidi; Matthew Moyer and wife Jennifer; Sarah Aruanno; Alyssa Allen; Brielle and Ainslee Costa; great grandsons, Ethan, Logan, Cash, Lincoln and Cole; as well as a sister, Mary Taylor and husband Joseph, Winter Haven, FL; and many nieces and nephews.
In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by her brother, Harry McAlpin, and sister, Louise Collins.
Family will receive friends on Monday, July 11, 2022, from 9:30 to 11:30 AM at Heller Funeral Home, LLC, 633 East Third St, Nescopeck.
A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 12:00 PM, at St Mary’s Our Lady Help of Christians, 3529 St Mary’s Rd, Wapwallopen with Reverend Joseph Evanko officiating. Burial will follow in the parish cemetery.
Online messages of comfort may be sent to condolences@hellerfuneralhomellc.com.