Roll Call Tribute

Andrew G. Costen
December 10, 1960 - April 7, 2021

Andrew Costen, age 60, of Watertown, MA died unexpectedly on April 7, 2021. His loss was completely unexpected and his wife and family are shocked and deeply saddened.

Andrew was born on December 10, 1960 to George and Laverne Costen in Cincinnati, OH. As a young boy, the family moved to Texas where Andrew graduated from Texas Arlington High School with honors. Andrew attended Texas A & M University where he was a member of the Corps of Cadets and played trumpet with the Fightin' Texas Aggie Band. He was recognized as the Best-Drilled Freshman in 1980. He graduated in 1985 with a Bachelor's of Computer Science, and was forever exuberantly proud to be an Aggie as demonstrated by his ever-present class ring and at least one item of A & M clothing. Andrew then enlisted in the Air Force where he was a 2nd Lieutenant and awarded expert marksmanship with small arms. He was honorably discharged in 1994. Andrew was a true patriot.

After discharge, he began his career as a Software Engineer at BAE Systems working on military aircraft systems. In 2006, he joined Solidus Technical Solutions as a Platform Integration Manager supporting the mission planning development for Mobility Air Forces aircraft. He transitioned into the role of Systems Engineer as well as supporting Combat Air Forces aircraft. He became the subject matter expert for the government supporting the development mission planning for F-15 and F-22. Andrew was very proud of his contributions to the safety of the war fighter.

Andrew spent copious amounts of time as a proud bass fisherman. He loved spending time on his Xpress bass boat stalking the next big one on lakes all over NH and MA, and always practiced catch-and-release. He and his true love, Karen, were outdoor enthusiasts, enjoying hiking, mountain biking, boating, scuba diving, boogie boarding, skiing, and exploring new adventures wherever they went. Andrew was a huge sports fan, especially for all things Texas A & M and of course his beloved New England Patriots. He was an avid member of the local Pickleball community, and relished a competitive game of singles, though there weren't too many opponents who could beat him! Andrew was also quite a cinephile, with science fiction being his favorite genre.

Anyone who knew Andrew, knew that he was an extremely doting and loving husband. He had an infectious smile, a youthful sense of humor, a quick wit, a passion for technology, boundless energy, and was always a source of positivity. His sometimes child-like, pure, honest enthusiasm was very contagious. He took much pride and joy in putting on a good backyard fireworks show for family and friends. Andrew had a special bond with his cat Texie, she was deeply attached to him and enjoyed their outings, playtime and loving attention. Andrew’s adoring wife, family, friends, former co-workers and fur baby will miss him more than words can say.

Andrew is survived by his wife Karen, mother Laverne, brother John and sister-in-law Amy, brother Peter and sister-in-law Nancy, brother Timothy, brother Matthew and sister-in-law Melissa, sisters Elizabeth and Molly, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Contributions in memory of Andrew can be made to GO2 Foundation for Lung Cancer. There will be a celebration of life service at Gore Park in Waltham, MA, on Saturday, May 22.