The Man of the Family
My father, Tony Santoro, was the oldest of four kids, and just six years old when his father died.  At his father's grave, his aunt told him he was now the man of the family. He spent the remaining 80 years of his life living up to this title: ‘the man of the family'. 
He began working at the age of 8, and drove an ice truck before and after school by 14. He joined the Marines at 18, just weeks before World War II ended.  He never forgave his mother for refusing to give permission for him to join at 17.  A person of rules, honesty and integrity, his 33 year career as a Detective Lieutenant with the New York City Police Department and his Marine enlistment were sources of great pride to him.  In retirement, he became involved in police, military, and community service organizations.  When he wasn't visiting with his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren, or replacing electrical outlets, he was volunteering his time with a stronger work ethic than many paid employees.
Tony had little patience for small talk, and none for laziness or inactivity, particularly in himself.  He loved to work and especially enjoyed home improvement and renovations.  He showed his love and caring more with actions than words, and was always eager to lend a helping hand.  Sometimes too eager, as he was not shy about telling you what needed to be done and doing it himself whether you wanted it or not.  
My dad was a study in contrasts.  Frugal but generous, proud yet humble, suspicious but faithful, intimidating yet friendly, and loud but, well just plain loud.  Tony had a way with words, and gave little consideration before he said them.  He could be crude and insensitive, but usually had no awareness or desire to do so.  He was a person of strong faith and conviction, and was honest to a fault.  Many times I wished that he was not so honest, particularly in public when he would share his politically incorrect, no nonsense views of the world with just about anyone who would listen.  
I now realize I will miss exactly this trait of his more than any other.  My dad never needed permission to tell u exactly what he thought.  He was incapable of pretense; you couldn't pay him to act like something he wasn't.  More than any person I have ever known, he was honest and reliable, for better or worse, no matter the consequence or the audience.  A bigger and louder than life figure who left his very distinct impression across generations of family and friends.  A special man, who surpassed his wildest depression era childhood dreams, creating a large and loving family, successful career, and financial security while reaching the ripe old age of 86.  As his wife, 4 children, 8 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren face the very sad task of moving on without him, we can take comfort in knowing that dad lived an uncompromising, brave, and authentic life, with few regrets and fewer apologies.
You did it, dad.  You became the man of the family, and then some.  We love you and will miss you so very much.
Semper Fi
August 22nd, 2013

Tony thanks for all you have done for us in more than 40 years, we will never forget you

Niki, Liane and Thomas from Austria

I am very sorry for your loss.  My family will keep you all in their prayers.  

               Stephen, Barbara, Alycia, and Lindsay Spinner

OBITUARY

Anthony V. Santoro

Passed away on AUGUST 16, 2013

R. Stutzmann & Son

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