Joseph “Joey” Costello III, 31, of Chicago, at rest April 30, 2026. Beloved husband of Lauren (nee Ruhe); loving son of Peggie Costello and Joseph Costello Jr.; dearest brother of Rosalia  (Jorge Viana) Costello, Kiley Costello and Marino (Alexandria) Costello; dear uncle of Carmela; devoted grandson of Mary (the late Joseph) Guardalabene and the late Joseph Sr. and Dorothy Costello.

Joey lived authentically; he only shared from his deep well of love and empathy when it felt meaningful to him and was never one for small talk or pleasantries. He thought deeply; beyond his incredible intellect, he could often be found pondering, feeling, reflecting, even in the middle of a crowd. When he felt safe, he was silly; performing inimitable dances with his eyebrows, belting out emo songs at the top of his lungs, or playing out an entire drum riff with his dog Theo’s paws, just to make his wife laugh. An outgoing introvert, Joey managed to collect the people who were important to him and keep that circle close year after year. He gave everything to the people he cared about, readily and quietly, without need for outside approval or even witness. He was exceedingly generous and kind at his core.

As a husband, Joey brought levity, intense affection, fierce protection, and a commitment to Lauren that will last well beyond our earthly bodies. He adored his little family (his wife, Lauren, their dog, Theo, and their cat, Mouse) and filled their home with music and breathless laughter. With Lauren in particular, he maintained the same playfulness and comedic nature that defined him as a child.

As a brother, Joey was a protector and a leader, with all his siblings, regardless of birth order, carrying great respect and admiration for his ability to be simultaneously humble and creatively ambitious. He was the calm in any storm and could be depended on for sage advice or uncontrollable laughter, whichever was more cathartic.

As a son, Joey had a pure heart and a quick wit. From a young age, animals were drawn to him, and his patience and compassion were obvious. His intelligence went well beyond academia and was profoundly empathic and emotional in nature. He brought almost instant skill to anything he set his mind to be it athletics, music, or business. It was a great honor and privilege to be his parent.

As a friend, Joey was charismatic, loyal, the instant life of any party. Dancing was for tables, not just dance floors, and Joey had the scars to prove his commitment to that belief. He was looked to to make decisions with his answers accepted without doubt.

We weren’t granted the time we would have liked with Joey, but he filled his 31 years with mindfulness, intention, risk-taking, laughter, and leadership. He was a guardian on earth; we can only imagine the spiritual protection he’ll offer as a celestial being. He meant so much to so many and will be forever adored and profoundly missed by his wife, parents, siblings, niece, extended family, and friends. Rest in peace, Legend.

Funeral services and inurnment private. Arrangements entrustd to Cappetta’s West Suburban Funeral Home. Info 630-852-8000 or westsuburbanfh.com