Scott Costa

Dr. Scott D. Costa Waterville Dr. Scott David Costa, 55, went into the arms of the Lord smiling on Wednesday, June 6, 2012 with his wife and loving family by his side. Scott was born April 26, 1957 in North Plainfield, N.J. and grew up in the hills of Warren Township, N.J. where he learned an appreciation for all living things from his mother’s and aunts’ vegetable gardens. Scott left high school to serve in the United States Navy during the Vietnam Era, earning his GED diploma and quickly achieving the rank of Petty Officer, Second Class. He received an Honorary Discharge and took up post-secondary education which led to degrees in Agriculture and Entomology. After his marriage, Dr. Costa earned his doctorate from North Carolina State University in 1999 and was a Research Assistant Professor at the University of Vermont. Scott developed a technology which is patent-pending with the University of Vermont. His plan for sampling Hemlock Wooly Adelgid has become an industry standard. Scott was awarded a licensing agreement from the University of Vermont and was developing a company with his wife at the time of his death. The impact of the loss of Dr. Costa’s talent and intellect is felt by colleagues throughout the United States and is certainly also a loss to future forest health. Scott Costa married the love of his life, the former Allison M. Steiner, in New Brunswick, N.J. on July 13, 1991. Together they have six children, five sons: Saul D. Costa, Caleb S. Costa, Levi A. Costa, Seth J. Costa, and Noah G. Costa, and one daughter: Aislinn Joy Costa. Also surviving is Scott’s daughter Rebecca L. Mikola and husband Michael of Daytona Beach, Florida. Dr. Costa is also survived by his caring siblings Robert Costa of Maine, Kathleen Raymond of Iowa, Sandra Mattie and husband Joseph of Alaska, and Mario Costa of North Carolina. He is also survived by his father’s wife of twenty-five years, whom he called Mom: Joyce Costa of North Carolina. Scott is survived by his devoted mother-in-law, Linda E. Steiner, his father-in-law Norman L. Steiner, and loving brother-in-law Norman E. Steiner and wife Laura, all of New Jersey. Scott is also survived by Allison’s paternal grandmother, Mary A. Steiner, of New Jersey, as well as many adoring nieces and nephews, loving aunts, and several cousins. He performed the marriage ceremony for niece Diana and husband John Gilkeson in 2008 in P.A. Scott was predeceased by his parents, Robert S. Costa and Dorothy (Chapman) Costa, and in 2006 by his sister-in-law Dawn R. Katzman whose graveside service he performed. Scott’s greatest joy was undoubtedly spending time with his children and family. His devotion as a father serves as an example to many, including his own children. He is greatly missed by all who love him. Scott loved being in his vegetable garden and hoped to retire to it one day. He also enjoyed sailing, was a proficient skier, and loved being at the ocean. Dr. Costa was a lay pastor for local area churches. His passion for God spilled into every area of his life, and he inspired many in their walk with the Lord. He will be sadly missed by his community. A private service was held at A.W. Rich Funeral Home on June 7, 2012. An outdoor service celebrating Scott’s life will be held at the family home on June 13, 2012 at 2 p.m., with reception to follow on the property courtesy of Waterville Ladies Aide. Memorial contributions in Dr. Costa’s memory may be made to the Lamoille Area Cancer Network, P.O. Box 38, Lake Elmore, VT 05657. Contributions to the family may be made to the Scott Costa Victory Fund at Merchant’s Bank, Johnson, VT.