Joaquin "Jack" Costa's Obituary
Joaquin “Jack” Costa
December 18, 1921 – January 1, 2025
Joaquin “Jack” Antonio Costa was born on a small farm on Eagle Avenue in Alameda, California on December 18, 1921. Though he had two older brothers, he was the first to be born in the United States. He was born to immigrant parents from the Cape Verde islands. He was born a twin, but unfortunately his twin died shortly after birth. At the age of 10, he lost his mother and then helped raise his two brothers and two sisters during the Great Depression. He learned from an early age to never expect to be given anything and that everything had to be earned. After graduating from Alameda High School, he followed in his father’s footsteps down to the Oakland waterfront where he became a longshoreman.
When the U.S. entered WWII he served his country by joining the Army as an MP serving in the European and African theaters of the war. After being Honorably discharged in 1945 he went back to the Oakland waterfront where he would work for the next 74 years. On May 24, 1950, he married Beverly Una Osibin. From this union two children were born, Paul Antonio, born in 1952 and David Joaquin, born in 1955. He adopted Beverly’s son from a previous marriage, Michael Joseph born in 1946. They also adopted a daughter, Kimberly Una in 1965, for a total of four children. After the passing of his first wife in 1995, he married Dorothy Gordon, and they enjoyed the next 30 years together.
He was the epitome of the American dream. He was part of what has been called The Greatest Generation, having lived through the Great Depression, a World War, a presidential assassination, the end of segregation and the Civil Rights movement. He didn’t care if you we`1re black, white or any other color. He treated everyone the same and expected your best effort every time. He was a product of the times and through an unshakeable work ethic and unwavering dedication, he was able to provide for his family and friends. He was a proud man, a man of integrity, honor, discipline, and dedication. He was steadfast and consistent. He never met a dance floor he didn’t like and gave respect to everyone. Even if he disagreed with you, he still respected you. On January 1, 2025, Jack went to his great reward and met his Maker at the age of 103. His first wife, Beverly, proceeded him in death in 1995 as well as two of his sons, Michael in 1991, and David in 1992. He is the last of his brothers and sisters to pass. He is survived by his second wife of 30 years, Dorothy Gordon Costa, as well as his daughter Kimberly Una Costa Reed, his son Paul Antonio Costa, and grandchildren Aaron Michael Costa, Jennifer Anne Costa, Wilson Antonio Costa, Lena Irene Reed, Emilia Grace Reed as well as four great-grandchildren, David Costa, Norah Costa, Maya Costa and Jackson Wallace Costa. He also leaves a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and other family members and friends.
While we are saddened that our Patriarch and leader is no longer with us in physical form, we take comfort in knowing that he is with his Maker and at peace after a long, full. blessed life of 103 years.
The stellar example he has set will remain with us forever.
What’s your fondest memory of Joaquin?
What’s a lesson you learned from Joaquin?
Share a story where Joaquin's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Joaquin you’ll never forget.
How did Joaquin make you smile?