Nicholas "Nickie" J. Costanza III

Nicholas “Nickie” John Costanza III, passed away peacefully on September 5, 2026, at Jersey Shore Memorial Medical Center surrounded by loved ones.

Nickie was a loving father, partner, son, brother, uncle, and friend whose larger-than-life personality left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him. He had a quick wit, an infectious sense of humor, and a gift for making people laugh. His presence could brighten a room, and he had a special way of bringing people together and making every gathering feel meaningful and memorable.

To his family, Nickie was a cherished and deeply loved presence. He took joy in spending time with those closest to him, and the bonds he shared with his family will remain a lasting part of his legacy. His friends, too, will remember his warmth, his playful spirit, and the happiness he brought into their lives.

A true football enthusiast, Nickie had a lifelong love for the game. In his earlier years, he proudly served as a coach for a semi-professional football team, sharing his passion and knowledge of the sport with those around him. Through football, as in so many parts of his life, he connected with others and made a lasting impression with many young men that he would continue to mentor outside of football.

Education was also an important part of Nickie's life and professional journey. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Seton Hall University in 1976, followed by a Master of Science in Systems Acquisition Management from the University of Southern California in 1985. He later earned a Master of Arts in Psychology from Monmouth University in 2002 and pursued graduate studies in International Relations and Foreign Policy. His diverse educational background reflected his lifelong curiosity, intelligence, and desire to understand both the technical and human sides of the world around him.

Professionally, Nickie was a highly accomplished executive and entrepreneur whose career spanned several decades in government contracting, technology, engineering, and program management. He served as a senior executive and Chief Operating Officer/Program Manager for Technology and Management International (TAMI), LLC, where he directed business operations, proposal development, and major national contractual programs supporting the United States Navy.

Outside of work and football, Nickie loved spending time with family and friends. He especially enjoyed dinner parties, where games, laughter, and good company were always part of the evening. These gatherings reflected so much of who he was: generous with his time, full of humor, and happiest when surrounded by people he cared about.

Nickie is survived by his beloved daughter and son in law, Crystal and Matt Johansen, his life Partner Viola Horvath, his 98-year-old mother Dorothy Costanza, his sister Debra Costanza, his niece Nicole Toci, his nephew William Aranguren, and his five great-nieces and nephews.

Nickie leaves behind more than memories of what he accomplished. He leaves behind the laughter he shared, the relationships he treasured, and the lasting impact of a life lived with personality, warmth, and love. Those who knew him will carry his memory forward in the stories they tell, the moments they remember, and the joy he brought into their lives.

He was one of a kind, and he will never be forgotten.

Visiting hours will be held on Tuesday, September 15, 2026, from 2pm to 9pm with a Time of Remembrance, 8:30pm at Maxwell-Tobie Funeral Home, 573 Mill Creek Road, Manahawkin, NJ 08050. A graveside service will be held on Wednesday, September 16, 11am at St. Mary of the Lake Cemetery, Lakewood, NJ.