Joseph Santon 1925-2025

He was born Feb. 14, 1925, the son of Joseph and Theresa Santon.

As a young boy, he carried newspapers and later caddied at the Youngstown Country Club to earn spending money.

He attended East High School and The Rayen School, after which he joined the Army. A U.S. veteran, he served with the Battery B Field Artillery during World War II and saw action in Northern France, Central Europe and the Rhineland, earning three Bronze Stars.

After the war, he was employed at Truscon Steel for 32 years and Fab Arts for seven years. In 1955, he married Irene Nero. They were married for 70 happy years.

An avid golfer, he played the game for more than 60 years and experienced the joy of having three holes-in-one. He and his wife enjoyed the sport together, golfing most summer weekends. His favorite vacations were with his brother, Dan and family at Hilton Head Island and Naples, Florida, enjoying the game and the sun. In the earlier days, he gardened with his wife, growing vegetables and flowers. He took great pride in his home and lawn. Quite handy, he could fix nearly anything.

In February of this year, he celebrated his 100th birthday at the MVR with the Santon family and close family friends, the Cassese family and others. All were entertained with a review of his life based on amusing stories.

During his recent hospital stay, he delighted family members by reminiscing about life during the “old days.” He enjoyed socializing, listening to Big Band music, especially the Glen Miller Band and watching movies, with “Casablanca,” being his favorite.

Besides his wife, Irene, he leaves a brother, Daniel; and several nieces and nephews. Preceding him in death were his parents, Joseph and Theresa Santon; brothers, Dominic, Ernie and John; sisters, Delphina Williams and Laura Perry; and in-laws, Michael and Jessie Nero; and brother-in-law, Ray Nero.

The family would like to extend heartfelt gratitude to the nurses at St. Elizabeth Boardman Hospital 4 South and the nurses and volunteers at Hospice House, for their excellent care and attention to Joe.

In lieu of flowers and gifts, the family respectfully requests that donations be sent to a charity of the donor’s choice.

A Memorial Mass will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 5, 2025, at St. Dominic Church, 77 E. Lucius Ave., Youngstown.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the professional care of the Rossi Brothers and Lellio Funeral Home, 4442 South Ave., Boardman.

Family and friends are encouraged to offer prayers for the family and support by visiting the Book of Memories at www.rossifunerals.com.

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