Bob Costello
Passed: April 13, 2021
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Bob Costello
Passed: April 13, 2021
Obituary
It is with incredible sadness to announce Bob Costello, Chief of Buckeye’s Fire and Medical Rescue Department has passed away.
Chief Costello joined the city in 2004 and became Fire Chief in 2008. Throughout his career, he achieved recognition for various awards and innovative programs, including the implementation of the Community Paramedicine Program, in coordination with Banner Estrella Medical Center.
Other awards and achievements include:
- Serving on the state’s Emergency Medical Services Council from 2001 – 2004, and from 2016 to his last appointment by Governor Ducey in 2020.
- Healthcare Hero Award, Phoenix Business Journal, Aug. 2019
- Exemplary Service to Humanity by the Veterans of Foreign Wars and American Legion, Feb. 2019
- Dr. Paul Johnson Award presented by Abrazo West Campus in May 2016
- Buckeye Heroism Award from the Buckeye Valley Chamber of Commerce in 2016
In addition, Chief Costello served as a member of the Patient Family Advisory Council at Banner Estrella Medical Center. He was instrumental in constructing multiple fire stations for the department to ensure the best service possible for residents.
In 2010, Chief Costello and his department took over operation and maintenance of the Louis B. Hazelton Memorial Cemetery. He is responsible for the success of the recent expansion of the cemetery, including the Adopt-A-Bench and Adopt-A-Tree programs, giving families different methods to honor and memorialize their loved ones.
Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, Chief Costello was instrumental in providing updates to the city’s Executive Team and ensuring the city followed CDC guidelines as well as state and local ordinances and policies.
The hard work and outstanding efforts of Chief Costello will have positive impacts on Buckeye for years to come. Chief Costello leaves behind a wife and brother.
Our hearts are heavy as we process this sudden and unexpected loss. More details regarding arrangements will be released when they are finalized. The city requests you respect the privacy of his family, his department and the entire city until then.
4 responses to Bob Costello
Steve Alley Jr. says:
April 13, 2021
Thank you to Chief Bob Costello and family for his years of dedicated work to the fire service. He was a special man that touched many lives. He was a great friend and source of information about many things. I feel fortunate to have been able to spend time with him years ago at training events and he was very special to the Alley family. He will be missed!
Carmen Boyd says:
April 15, 2021
Bob, I haven’t seen you in years but recognized your face! I went to VHLassen with you 1972, 73. I used to assist your Mom Cammie as she was the school’s nurse. I had asthma and would go during PE because I was limited. You were always so kind to me and had such a jolly laugh. May you rest in peace.
Jeffrey nagy jr says:
April 16, 2021
Chief..you were a great friend and pillar to Buckeye. My son loved talking with you about the trucks and asking you for stickers good times that we will miss. We thank you for all that you have done and for your great service to this great community we will miss you but will NEVER forget you. Rest In heaven Sir.
Bruce Thompson says:
July 13, 2021
I worked with Bob for many years at the annual Arizona State Fire School and through our affiliation with the Arizona Fire Chiefs Association. He was a good friend and an important asset to the Arizona fire service community. I extend my sincere condolences to his family and friends. Rest in peace, Brother.