Michael Aaron Costea

With unfailing faith and triumphant joy, Michael Aaron Costea passed from this world into his Father’s Kingdom on February 25th, 2021.  He made these final steps surrounded by the family he so loved. With bittersweet hearts, we mourn this devastating loss while celebrating the salvation he so cherished. Born November 8th, 1962 in Somerset, Mike is a graduate of Rockwood Senior High School. He is predeceased by his late parents, Fred and Joan Costea.  He is survived by wife Karen (Atchison) Costea, the woman he loved since childhood and to whom he was married for 37 years.   He is also survived by children Sarah Rouch (Matt Rouch) and Matthew Costea.  His grandchildren, Eli Rouch and Jeremiah Rouch, will forever remember him as “Papa.”  Mike is also survived by sisters Doreen Costea, Mary Gerhard (Steve Gerhard), and sister-in-law Kristie Ann Rigo (George Rigo). Nieces Mallory Rigo, Neha Rigo, as well as nephews Jared Rigo (wife Josie and Deacon), Brantley Rigo (Allie), Noah Gerhard, and Kaleb Gerhard will miss “Uncle Mike.” Mike leaves behind a large family full of people whom he dearly loved.Mike began working at Edgewood Market as a young man.  He spent 17 years as a butcher at Roof Garden Market.  He then transitioned to working at The Somerset Candy Company, where he would later become part owner.  Wherever Mike worked, he gave every day his best effort and built relationships with the people around him.  He found joy in meeting and getting to know both customers and coworkers. Starting at a young age, Mike fell in love with baseball.  Throughout his life, he enjoyed playing ball and watching his beloved  Pittsburgh Pirates.  He grew up playing baseball as often as possible, and he spent many happy seasons as a Rockwood Rocket during his high school years.  He went on to enjoy coaching Little League for both of his children.  He is remembered as an energetic, inspiring coach to The Lady Eagles softball team for the Somerset Area School District.  Later in life, Mike participated in vintage base ball as a Rockwood Mainliner.  He was a founding member of Somerset’s vintage base ball club, The Frosty Sons of Thunder.  He enjoyed vintage ball enough to also travel with the Addison Mountain Stars.  His love of baseball allowed him to play on fields both humble and renowned –his time spent playing on “The Field of Dreams” stands out as a highlight in his lifetime. Of all of the wonderful roles Mike fulfilled, he is best remembered for his unwavering faith.  A lifelong member of First Christian Church in Somerset, Mike served as a deacon and an elder. He carefully prepared and delivered Sunday School lessons on a regular basis. He studied the gospel and devoted himself to a bold prayer life.  He modeled a Godly example for his children.  His compassionate spirit and wonderful work ethic made him a vital part of the FCC Mission Corps.  He traveled the country, serving God on mission trips close to home and far away. Anyone who met Mike knows that he loved to help others, and everything he did was to serve The Lord and spread His Word.This world is a better place for having known Mike, and his absence will be felt every day.  However, there is confidence in his salvation and hope of reunion for those who love Jesus Christ. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Cutting Edge Relief c/o Costea Memorial Fund at 310 Barckhoff Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15235.  This ministry was special to Mike, and he would delight in giving back to such a worthy cause.  A memorial service to celebrate Mike’s life will be held on Saturday, March 13th  at 1:00 PM.  The service will be at The First Christian Church in Somerset:  139 East Main Street, Somerset, PA.  It will also be streamed online.  Details on streaming will be available at https://www.somersetfirstchristian.org/

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