Robert Lee Costelac, Sr., 88, of Shinnston, passed away on Friday, May 22, 2026, peacefully at his home with his family with him. He was born in Owings, WV on August 31, 1937, one of four sons, of the late Lawrence A. Costelac and Julia (Basagic) Costelac.
Robert is survived by his wife of 67 years, Patricia J. (Alessio) Costelac; son, Robert Costelac, Jr. and wife Tanya R. Costelac; three grandsons: Thomas W. Frankenberry, Evan M. Frankenberry and Samuel A. Frankenberry; sister-in-law, Arlene Costelac as well as several nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, Robert is preceded in death by his son, David Wayne Costelac, his brothers: Lawrence G. Costelac, John K. Costelac and infant brother Ronald Costelac.
Robert was a 1955 graduate of Shinnston High School where he excelled in football. He was selected to play in the North–South All Star game, as well as the only East–West All Star game played. He accepted a football scholarship to Maryland University and played his freshman year at Greenbrier Military Academy. He was also recruited by the universities of Michigan, West Virginia and North Carolina. After an injury his freshman year, Robert returned home to work for his father in the strip-mining business. He worked for 37 years along side his father and brother, Larry, for LL&B Coal Company which was later changed to United Coal Company, until his father sold the business and retired. Robert then worked for the heavy equipment operator’s union 132 in Clarksburg until his retirement, to care for his aging parents. Robert was a fan of WVU football and basketball, attending hundreds of games with his family. He also enjoyed watching the Steelers and Pirates, often taking his sons to see the Pirate legends play in their hey-day. Robert went to McDonalds for breakfast every day the weather permitted and would sit in his truck, visiting his deceased son David’s grave at Shinnston Memorial Cemetery. As he grew older, Robert really enjoyed dining out with family and spending time on special occasions at his parent’s house with family, where his son Robert and wife Tanya reside. On their way home, he would always say to his wife Patty, “What a meal!!” He helped his son mow grass there until his physical health prevented this. Like his father before him, he could strike up a conversation with anyone until that person got tired of talking. He had only friends in his community. With his passing, Shinnston has a void that can never be filled and anyone who knew him well would nod in agreement.
In honoring Robert’s wishes, cremation services will be honored and no public services held. A private graveside interment with immediate family will be held.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to:
St. Ann Church, 43 Mahlon St., Shinnston, WV 26431
Humane Society of Harrison County, 2450 Saltwell Rd., Shinnston, WV 26431
Or a food pantry of your choice.
Dorsey Funeral Home is honored to be handling the arrangements for the Costelac family.
