Shelburne
Brian died on the evening of September 13. He was beloved by friends and family, and all are heartbroken by our loss. He is survived by his parents, PM and Paula Costello; his sisters, Leah Costello and Elizabeth Costello Wolchesky; their husbands, Michael Tallman and Dylan Wolchesky; and their children, Theo and Iris Tallman and Alice Wolchesky. Brian is also survived by his grandfather James von Rohr; his aunt Carol von Rohr; numerous aunts, uncles and cousins; and many friends.
Brian graduated from South Burlington High School, Tufts University and University of Vermont Medical School. He was an outstanding student and excelled in his studies. He enjoyed gathering with family and friends and was always quick to join others for a barbecue, birthday celebration or outdoor adventure. His young nieces and nephew brought him much joy. Brian was an avid skier and enjoyed hiking and camping. Spirituality became a very important piece of his adult life, and we want to thank his friends at the Monastic Academy and the Insight Meditation Society for embracing him. Brian was a kind and gentle soul and could always brighten up a room with his wonderful sense of humor.
Brian struggled with mental illness for many years. He tried many forms of therapy and spirituality to end his suffering, but it endured. He was courageous through difficult times and always reached out to family and friends who supported him through his struggles. Brian was in tremendous pain, and all of us hope that he is now at peace.
A memorial service will be held on Friday, September 28, 1 p.m., at the Unitarian Church in Burlington. In lieu of flowers, we ask that donations be made in Brian’s memory to Pathways (pathwaysvermont.org), Insight Meditation Society (dharma.org) or the Howard Center (howardcenter.org).
May all beings be happy. May all beings be free. May all beings live at ease. May all beings know peace. Brian sends his love to all.
This article appears in Sep 12-18, 2018.
I am sending your family huge love and strength. I lost my beautiful brother and only sibling to depression two years ago. You write this courageously and beautifully and I will keep Brian in my heart and all of you in my prayers. He clearly is an extraordinary soul. Love and light and strength. May you focus on the love and beauty, not the impossible sense of loss.
PM and family – I am very sad to learn of your son’s passing. I feel like I knew your children as mine grew up being treated by you PM. Our hearts and love go out to you at this difficult time. Cindy and Don MacKechnie
What a brave, beautiful tribute.
We were not close in school, but I cannot recall a time he was unkind to anyone. I hope he is at peace now, and his family can find closure.
I also went to school with Brian. We weren’t close, but I do remember his smile.
Depression and mental illness is a painful thing to endure, I have fought my own battle with it all my life.
Today I will smile for Brian. I will take his memory and spread joy to others today.
May we all do this for each other each and every day.
Wishing all his family and friends love and light and strength.
A kind and beautiful soul – I was made better by knowing Brian and am saddened by this news. My prayers go out to his family and all who were touched by him.
Rest in peace Brian. Sending love to his family from England xx