Joseph M. Santarella, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and uncle, as well as a loved and respected member of the community, passed away peacefully at home on November 23, 2024. Born in Staten Island, New York to Josephine and Carmine Santarella on January 10, 1939, Joe spent the first part of his life in Staten Island and the second half in South Florida.

An excellent student, Joe skipped several school years and after high school took a job with Manufacturers Hanover Trust Company. He married Marie Barro and had two boys, Joe Jr., followed quickly by Chris. While working full time at MHT, he took night classes at St. John's University where he earned his degree. Together with Marie, they welcomed all of their sons' friends into their lives and home as a loving extended family and created countless memories.

Joe was an accomplished Trust and Estate Banker and passionate about helping people and giving back to the community. After retiring from 40 years in the same organization, he volunteered for Habitat for Humanity helping people qualify for the housing program. Soon he was President of the South Palm Beach Chapter of Habitat For Humanity and instrumental in opening the Habitat For Humanity ReStore in Boca Raton. Joe was on the board of the local YMCA and worked closely with the Catholic Church as a Lector and an active member of the Knights of Columbus. He particularly enjoyed working at the Catholic Heart Work Camps with Michael Catapano and his family. He was known as the baby whisperer for his amazing ability to calm any colicky baby.

Joe is survived by his loving wife, Mona, and his two sons, Joseph M. Santarella Jr. (Susan Eckert) and Christopher J. Santarella (Gabriele). He is predeceased by his first wife, Marie, and his youngest son, Mark. Joe also leaves behind his adored sister, Linda Smith (Al), two cherished grandchildren, Marisa Santarella (Diego Horna) and Elena Santarella, many nieces and nephews, and an extended network of friends and family—all of whom will remember him as a warm and loving person.

A funeral Mass will be held on Friday, December 6, 2024, at 10:30 AM at St. Vincent Ferrer Catholic Church (840 George Bush Blvd, Delray Beach, FL). To watch the funeral Mass via livestream, please click here.

Interment will be private, at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations to Cros Ministry Delray Beach Food Pantry in his memory.