Les Costello

Fr. Leslie John Thomas Costello, born on February 16, 1928, in South Porcupine, Ontario, was a remarkable figure who seamlessly transitioned from the ice rink to the pulpit. As a teenager, he showcased his talent in ice hockey, eventually joining the prestigious St. Michael's Majors in Toronto during the 1940s. His skill on the ice led him to win the Memorial Cup twice, in nineteen forty-five and nineteen forty-seven, solidifying his reputation as a formidable player.

Costello's professional career in the National Hockey League began with the Toronto Maple Leafs, where he played for two seasons, including being part of the celebrated team that clinched the Stanley Cup in nineteen forty-eight. His athletic prowess was complemented by a familial connection to the sport, as his brother Murray also pursued a career in professional hockey.

In nineteen fifty, Costello made a pivotal decision to retire from hockey to follow a spiritual path, enrolling in St. Augustine's Seminary. He was ordained as a Catholic priest in nineteen fifty-seven, marking the beginning of a new chapter in his life. His early ministry took him to Cobalt and Kirkland Lake, but it was in his hometown of Timmins where he truly made his mark.

As a parish priest, Costello was known for his vibrant personality and unwavering commitment to social justice and charitable work. His flamboyant and fun-loving demeanor endeared him to his community, where he was widely respected and cherished for his dedication to helping others.