Anthony (Tony) Santacrose, 73, of Endicott, NY, passed away peacefully at home on November 1st, surrounded by his family.
Tony is survived by his beloved wife of 53 years, Maria (Ciotoli), and their loving family. He leaves behind his son, Destin, and daughter-in-law, Elizabeth, and their children Constantine, Octavian, and Aurelia; and his daughter, Melissa, and son-in-law, Tim Slater, and their children Watson, Madeline, and Maxwell. He is also survived by his sisters, Christina Faulkner and Kim Mosteller, Marietta and Bob DeSanctis, and his brother, Romolo and Laura Santacrose. He is also survived by many brother-in-laws and sister-in-laws, and nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by his parents, Gaetano and Viola Santacose, and his brothers, Guy and Michael.
Tony was born on April 29, 1953, in Endicott, NY. He met the love of his life, Maria, while attending Union-Endicott High School, where he graduated in 1971. He went on to attend Florida State University, earning a master’s degree in Social Work.
Tony had a gift for understanding people and a remarkable ability to offer thoughtful advice and guidance. He devoted more than 40 years to helping others, beginning his career as a counselor in private practice and a social worker in Walton, where he also began raising his family. He later moved to Norwich, where he continued his commitment to serving others as an administrator for the New York State Office for People With Developmental Disabilities. During his years there, he made many lasting friendships and continued to touch countless lives through his work. Throughout his career, Tony made a meaningful difference to the people he served, offering compassion, wisdom, and guidance to all those fortunate enough to know him.
Above all, Tony cherished his wife and family. He enjoyed a good poker game with friends and had a special talent for finding the best bakery wherever family vacations took them. Whether offering his wisdom, sharing a laugh, or simply spending time with those he loved, Tony made a lasting impression on the people around him.
Tony will be remembered for his insight, his generous advice, and his deep love for his family. His presence will be profoundly missed, but the memories he created and the lives he touched will live on in all those who knew and loved him.
The family will receive visitors at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church, 300 Odell Ave., Endicott, NY on Thursday, November 5 from 9:30-11:00 am, followed by a funeral mass. Burial will be at the convenience of the family.
In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy in his memory may be made to the St. Francis Ministry, c/o Sister Anisia Muthoni, 906 Jenkins St., Endicott, NY 13760.