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he was always creating, fixing, or dreaming up something new

Joel Eugene Costellow, born July 22, 1949, bid the world farewell on June 22, 2026, after a life filled with love, curiosity, quiet humor, and warmth. He was, in every sense, one of a kind—known and loved as the sweetest, funniest, and most loving Poppa, dad, husband, and friend to those lucky enough to share in his life.

Joel was born to Rudolph and Louise Costellow, whose love, values, and steady guidance helped shape the kind, thoughtful, and gentle man he became. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Donna; his brother, Ray; and his sister-in-law, Wanda. The love and memories he shared with each of them remained woven into the fabric of his life.

A proud graduate of Jasper High School, Class of 1968, Joel’s curiosity and determination led him to Lamar University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in May 1972. He went on to build an extraordinary career in mechanical engineering, dedicating fifty years of his talent and intellect to Westinghouse and later Siemens. To his colleagues, Joel was more than a gifted engineer—he was a mentor, a thoughtful collaborator, and a trusted friend.

Though Joel took great pride in his work, his greatest joy was found in the life he built beyond it. A natural builder and tinkerer, his shop was a place of creativity and quiet joy, where he was always creating, fixing, or dreaming up something new. He loved the outdoors and found peace in the mountains and in the simple rhythms of country life. He was happiest watching his cows roam, feeling the wind on his face during a mountain bike ride, or spending quiet moments under the Texas sky.

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his humor arrived gently but stayed with you

Above all, Joel’s truest legacy lives on in those who survive him: his devoted daughter, Shannon Bates, whose love for her father knew no bounds; his son-in-law, Steven Bates, whom Joel loved not only as family, but as a dear friend, confidant, and the son he was deeply proud to call his own; and his two grandsons, Valen and Vaughn Riveros, who adored their Poppa and will carry his spirit forward. Each carries pieces of his kindness, humor, creativity, and gentle strength—a living testament to the man who shaped them with patience, wisdom, and love.

Those who knew Joel—whether as a friend, a neighbor, or simply by reputation—will remember a man whose humor arrived gently but stayed with you, often in the form of a quiet smile, a clever remark, or a perfectly timed observation. His wisdom was a comfort in difficult times, and his steady presence made the world feel a little safer. He could take an ordinary afternoon and turn it into an adventure, or make even the simplest task an opportunity for learning and joy. He was loved by all who knew him and will be deeply missed by more people than can be counted.

A memorial service honoring Joel Eugene Costellow’s remarkable life will be held at 2:00 PM on July 11, 2026, at Mulkey-Bowles-Montgomery Funeral Home, 705 N Locust St, Denton, TX 76201. Family and friends are invited to gather to share stories, reflect on a life well lived, and hold close the love and memories Joel gave so freely.

He leaves behind a world made better for having had him in it, and memories that will continue to echo in the hearts of those who loved him.