Christopher M. Costley, 55, of Litchfield, died on Saturday, Sept. 5, 2020, at 8:05 p.m. in his home, surrounded by his loving family, following a long courageous battle with cancer.
Per his wishes, there will be no formal visitation or funeral. A Celebration of Life will be conducted at a later date. Litchfield Family Funeral Service is assisting the family.
Mr. Costley was born Sept. 7, 1964, in St. Louis, to Norman and Shirley (Monroe) Costley. He married Terri Fairless on May 25, 1985, in Staunton, and she survives.
He served in the U.S. Navy aboard aircraft carrier USS Ranger, CV 61, and was stationed in San Diego, CA. Following his time in the service, he returned to the local area and acquired an associate degree in aviation mechanics.
Mr. Costley spent many years in the aviation industry. He later transitioned to construction first of aircraft, then homes, then orthotics and prosthetics. Additionally, he was a writer and an accomplished wood worker, and loved his constant companion, his Bassett hound Otis.
In addition to his wife of 35 years, he is survived by his children, Kimberly (Ed) Knecht of Edwardsville, Melanie (Andrew Smith) Smith of Park City, UT, and Andrea (Grant Plovich) Costley of Benld; grandchildren, Ethan, Levi, Kinley, Amanda, Tiana and Bror; and sister, Cindy Costley (Darrell) Baker of Shipman.
Mr. Costley was preceded in death by his parents.
Memorials may be directed to Alport Syndrome Foundation, P.O. Box 4130, Scottsdale, AZ 85261.
Online condolences to the family may be left at www.litchfieldffs.com.
