Santo Joseph Strano Jr.

Santo passed away peacefully on July 1, 2020 at Danbury Hospital. The medical staff worked hard to try and make him well. Unfortunately they were unable to help him. He was having heart issues. Unfortunately Santo not only had physical health issues to deal with, he battled mental depression much of his life. His family strongly feels that his heart could not continue to beat because his depression won.

Santo was born March 21, 1958. His mom always bragged that his birthday was on the first full day of spring. He was born the third son to Elizabeth (Retz) Strano and Santo J. Strano. Elizabeth (Betty) wanted a little girl so bad but as soon as she saw Santo she couldn’t have loved him more. Santo was very close to his mom.

Santo was born in Danbury, CT. He attended South Street School and graduated from Danbury High School in 1976. He then went on to Denver Automotive College to become a certified mechanic. After graduating College in 1977, Santo went to work for Colonial Honda and Colonial Ford for 41 years. For a short period of time Santo drove 18 wheeler for Swift. He suffered a stroke in 2018 which left him with short term memory loss which forced him to take an early disability retirement.

When Santo was in his 20’s he had a passion for cars especially his Chevy Nova which he raced at Dover Race Track in Dover, NY. He was a hard worker. He built his own home in Brookfield and was very proud of that accomplishment. Prior to his Stroke he spent as much time as possible riding his Bright Yellow and Black Harley.

Santo was predeceased by his Mother, Elizabeth (Retz) Strano and his Father, Santo J. Strano, and a brother, Richard Strano.

Santo is survived by a daughter, Elizabeth Strano; and a son, Santo Strano. Unfortunately the family became estranged as seems to happen with divorce. Santo tried hard to be a good dad. Upon his passing we found every birthday card and drawing that his children had given him. He made sure when he had them for their family visits that the children attended Mass. He made sure as every Catholic dad would do that they made their First Holy Communion. I am sure that part of his depression was the loss of his beautiful family.

He is also survived by a brother Orazio (Roger) Strano.

The family would like to thank Diane Gulino. She was a true friend for over 40 years. She was a real light in his life. Her visits were uplifting.

We would also like to thank Almost Family who without their help especially during this pandemic would have been unbearable. We especially want to thank Jasmin Bautista who was his main caregiver. She worked tirelessly to make his day better. Lastly we would like to thank Meals on Wheels who were always there during freezing weather and extremely hot days to see that his meals were provided.

A private religious service was held at Saint Peter’s Cemetery in Danbury, CT.