Mary S. Santos

February 2, 1927- April 16, 2021

Mary Petronio Santos was born on February 2,1927 in Lawrence, Massachusetts. Mary was one of four children of Giuseppe and Antoinette Petronio. Her parents were born in Sicily, Italy and settled in California 1928. Mary had 2 sisters and 1 brother; Sam Petronio, Santina Moran, and Carmela McBride. All have preceded Mary in death. Chris Santos also preceded Mary in death after 63 years of marriage.

Mary and her siblings lived and worked in the “Valley of the Heart’s Delight”, as Santa Clara/San Jose was then known.

Mary graduated in June 1944 from San Jose High School. Shortly after her graduation, her mother died after a long battle with cancer. Several years earlier, when Mary was 13, her father died.

Mary held a number of jobs in her youth, ranging from field work in the drying sheds, to office work for the County Hall of Records. She took courses in typing and shorthand to move up and improve her work options.

Mary met the love of her life, Christopher Santos, at a dance in 1945. Chris was shy, but Mary had decided that he was the guy for her! She asked him for their first dance, and the magic began.

Mary and Chris were married in June 1948 at the Sacred Heart Church on Willow Street, in San Jose. Once the children began arriving, Mary quit work outside the home to become a full-time Mom. They have 5 children; Robert Santos (Judy), Steven Santos (Janelle), Sherryl Santos, Doug Santos (Cathleen) and Christie Santos. There are 11 grandchildren, 7 great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

Mary and Chris were very active in the American Legion Post 419 in Santa Clara. Mary held almost every officer position there was! She was the auxiliary president in 1965-1966. The center of their social life revolved around The American Legion. Mary was also an epic BINGO player! There were the yearly Christmas parties where the kids all enjoyed a visit from Santa Claus. Numerous BBQs and other social gatherings throughout the year.

Mary had a genuine and robust laugh! That is the first thing many people remember about her. She had an easy smile and loved talking to people. She enjoyed meeting new friends and watching her grandchildren grow and play. It is a blessing that we were able to enjoy Mary’s life and spunk for 94 years!