Born August 11, 1949 to Yvette Angeline LeMay and Malcolm Ernest Costa, Dana graduated in 1969 from New Bedford Vocational Technical High School in carpentry. He plied his trade in numerous homes and businesses. However, he is perhaps most often remembered as a proud volunteer and exhibition builder for the New Bedford Whaling Museum where he toiled countless hours bringing our history to the community.

 

A devoted husband of 50 years, survivors include his wife Simone F. (Boucher) Costa and two children: Jason & Hollie (spouse) Costa, Trisha & Mark (spouse) Leary and 4 grandchildren: Benjamin, Cassidy, Daeonna (Didi) and Sydney. He was the brother of Patricia Barry (Sarasota, Florida), Rae Elaine Souza (New Bedford. MA) and Donna Lynne Ballou (Enta, Maine).

 

As a hardworking, generous and loyal person, Dana is fondly remembered as a pépère, godfather, father-in-law, uncle, mentor, neighbor, and friend who was always willing to give a hand, an ear and his friendship to anyone who knew him; whether that was 10+ years or 10 minutes.

 

In rare moments when Dana wasn’t hard at work, he looked forward to motorcycle cruising with Simone and friends; the summers were often filled with food, laughter and music. Back at home, he enjoyed spending time on projects large and small surrounded by his family and friends who often stopped by just to say hello; the door was always open and there was an unfinished corner to attend to. 

 

His memorial will take place at a time to be determined in Seaman’s Bethel, New Bedford, followed by a private burial in Rural Cemetery with military honors. Remembrances may be made to http://m.aubertine-lopes.com. Donations may be given in lieu of flowers to the New Bedford Whaling Museum www.whalingmuseum.org.