Loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather
Rev. John DeSantis Jr., 79, of Middlebury passed away Tuesday, Dec. 16, 2014, surrounded by his loving family. He was the husband of Rita (Rossi) DeSantis.
John was born in Waterbury on Christmas Day 1934, a son of the late John and Rose (DiLeo) DeSantis. He was a U.S. Navy veteran who served during the Korean Conflict. John worked at the Middlebury Public Works Department for many years and as a Middlebury police officer. He later went to work with his brother at DeSantis Street Sweeping Co. until his retirement. He then began his ministry and became ordained a reverend. He was currently a member of The Rock Church of Waterbury and served as treasurer on the board.
John loved helping out at their food pantry. He also enjoyed singing and was a soloist. John participated in the Eagles Wing Television Program on Channel 13 on a monthly basis for many years. He was a carpenter by trade and built several houses for himself and other family members. John was an original charter member of the Middlebury Police Social Club.
Besides his wife, Rita, of 58 years, he leaves three sons: John DeSantis III of Woodbury; David DeSantis of San Francisco, Calif.; and Richard DeSantis and his wife, Judy, of Watertown; two daughters: Susan Powers and her husband, Tim, and Amy L. DeSantis, all of Middlebury; a brother, Joseph DeSantis, and his wife, Susan, of Middlebury; seven grandchildren: John William DeSantis and Maegan Evans; Michael Ryan DeSantis and his wife, Joann; Mikayla Shea Powers; Griffin Leon Powers; and Zachary John Powers, all of Middlebury; Jacob Robert DeSantis and Marguerite Judith DeSantis, both of Watertown; two great-grandchildren, Bailey DeSantis and Josephine DeSantis, both of Middlebury; and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his sister, Rosemary DeSantis.
A funeral service will be celebrated Saturday, Dec.20, at 11 a.m. at The Rock Church of Waterbury at 513 Meriden Road in Waterbury. Burial will be private and at the convenience of the family. Calling hours will be at the funeral home Saturday from 9 a.m. until the time of the service at the church. Chase Parkway Memorial/The Albini Family Funeral Home at 430 Chase Parkway in Waterbury has been entrusted with the arrangements.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made in John’s memory to The Rock of Waterbury Food Pantry, 513 Meriden Road, Waterbury, CT 06705. For more information or to send e-condolences visit www.chaseparkwaymemorial.com.
