Frank “Paul” Costa, 90, Punta Gorda, Fla., passed away at his home Wednesday, Oct. 24, 2012.

He was born Nov. 6, 1921, in Bronx, N.Y., the son of Vincenzo Costa and Rosa Gannella Costa.

Paul married his childhood sweetheart, Josephine “Jo” Cordone, April 21, 1951, and had celebrated their 61st wedding anniversary this year. He was an accomplished businessman. After marrying, Paul and Jo owned and operated Costa Foods in Bronx. When they retired to Punta Gorda in 1968, he began to successfully invest in local real estate building several commercial properties in Charlotte and Lee counties. In addition, Paul loved music especially music from the Big Band era having conducted the Paul Costa Orchestra in New York in the 40’s. In his later years, he often played his organ with one of his grandchildren sitting beside him. Paul had a strong and positive influence on his family, especially on his three sons who often sought his guidance and insight. He will be deeply missed by his family.

Paul leaves behind his sons, Vincent Costa of McCaysville, Ga., Frank Paul Costa Jr., of Palm Harbor, Fla., and Raymond (Kathleen) Costa of Port Charlotte, Fla.; grandchildren, Concettia (Scott) Ehrhart, Amanda Costa, Angelina (Joseph) Cain, Frank P. Costa III, Robert Costa, Andrea (Christopher) Laden, Olivia Costa, and Sam Costa; great-grandchildren, Reece and Jayden Ehrhart, and Joseph and Josilina Cain; numerous nieces and nephews; and loving caregivers for both Paul and Josephine, Ofra Nunez and Denise Morales. He was preceded in death by his parents; beloved wife, Jo, in May; brother, Pete; sister, Mary; daughter-in-law, Brenda Costa; and granddaughter, Sara Marie Costa.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in memory of Paul and Josephine Costa to Hospice of Southwest Florida, 5955 Rand Blvd., Sarasota, FL 34238. Please visit the online tribute for Frank Paul Costa at www.kays-ponger.com.

Arrangements are by Kays-Ponger & Uselton Funeral Homes and Cremation Services, Punta Gorda Chapel.