Submitted by Lisa Malloy, Haddam Historical Society
(November 17, 2025) — This week we lost a remarkable Haddam individual who was generous, kind, gracious, hospitable, and committed….. not only to the Haddam Historical Society but to her community, friends and family.
Susann Costa was an important and vital part of the Haddam Historical Society having served on the Board of Directors for many years and held the position of President. She was active on many committees, including programs, events, education, and was instrumental in having the Spring Antiques Show return to the Hartford Armory.
Sue was solely responsible for creating and instituting the Haddam Historical Society Scholarship Program, which awards a $500 scholarship to a graduating HK Senior every year. This program shows Sue’s commitment to furthering the education of our community’s deserving students and the importance of history both locally and globally. In the past few years, we have awarded more than one scholarship.
Sue and her husband, David, hosted many memorable events at their beautiful home, including progressive dinners, Dancing in the Moonlight, 70’s Party, thank-you gatherings, board meetings, and more. Both Sue and Dave were kindhearted and considerate hosts. They have also sponsored a number of events, including our music series in 2021 and this past summer’s concert by Mama Train, to name a few. They have donated to auctions, fundraisers, and programs in every manner.
Sue was always ready to jump in, help and volunteer to make an event or program successful. She lugged tables, set up chairs, cooked hot dogs, hung banners, served wine, baked, and could pull an event together seamlessly. Her help with Founders Day was legendary and she was awarded the HHS Volunteer Award in 2012.
Sue’s medical training was helpful, as our nurse on call, and her business expertise was unrivaled. Sue was also one of the best story tellers I knew. She was truly one of a kind and we will miss her grace, generosity and compassion. We send our thoughts and prayers to her family and we will miss her terribly.
Here is a link to her obituary and service information:
https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/centerbrook-ct/susann-costa-12617197
In lieu of flowers, donations in Susann’s memory may be directed to The Haddam Historical Society in support of its annual scholarship program, which she initiated and was one of her most cherished causes. Donations should specify support for the annual scholarship program in Susann’s memory and may be made online at haddamhistory.org or by mail addressed to P.O. Box 97, Haddam, Connecticut 06438.
Photo provided by Haddam Historical Society
