Mr. Joseph M. Santarelli, 51, died suddenly on February 10, 2022. The “gentle giant” had a heart of gold, always willing to drop everything for someone in need. In life he was always a giving person and in death continued as an organ donor.
Visiting in the Prout Funeral Home, 370 Bloomfield Avenue, Verona will be on Wednesday, February 16 from 5 to 7 p.m., followed by a service at 7 p.m.
Born in Montclair, Mr. Santarelli grew up in Liverpool, N.Y. before returning to Verona in 1991. He was a graduate of Onondaga Community College and enjoyed a career as the owner of a firm that specialized in movie and TV set productions. He was a long-time member of the Screen Actors Guild.
Predeceased by his father, Arthur A. Santarelli, he is survived by his mother, Sonja Momquist Santarelli; his sister, Susan Santarelli; his partner, Diane Zimmer; niece and god-daughter, Shayna; nephews Joseph, Alexander, Zachariah and adopted family member, Frankie. He was also loved by his Pugs, Sherman, Summer, Elsie, Henry, and Angus, and Feline, LuLu.
In lieu of flowers, donations to the Humane Society, 4915 West Taft Road, Liverpool, NY 13088 or to the Friends of Clifton Animal Shelter, 900 Clifton Avenue, Clifton, NJ 07013 would be appreciated.
Condolences may be left at www.proutfuneralhome.com.
