Benjamin F. Santamauro, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully on January 6, 2025, at the age of 80, surrounded by his cherished family and his fur babies, who he lived and would die for, Luigi, Harley, Cali, and Maria.
Born in New Haven, on May 14, 1944, a son of the late Salvatore “Tate” and Annette Santacroce Santamauro, Benny was a lifelong resident of West Haven, where he built a rich and fulfilling life. He was predeceased by his first wife, Beverly (Girasuolo) Santamauro, and his sons Patrick Santamauro and Val (Gina) Santamauro.
Ben is survived by his devoted wife of 18 years, Andrea (Iannone) Santamauro, and his loving sons Robert Santamauro of West Haven, and Darin Keyes of Boynton Beach, FL. He also leaves behind cherished grandchildren Jenny and Sarah Santamauro, Robert (Linda), and Marisa Santamauro, as well as numerous great-grandchildren who will miss him dearly. Brother of Anthony Santamauro, California, James Santamauro of East Haven, Sally (Frank) Narcisco of South Carolina, Susan D’ Amato, East Haven. Son-in-law of Thomas (Barbara Varipapa) Iannone of Orange and Arlene Iannone of California.
For more than 60 years, Ben owned and operated with his family, Ben’s Service Center & Towing in Orange, where he transformed countless customers into lifelong friends and family. Benjamin acquired many friends over the years and so many of them became like family, especially his Gas Station crew! He was an advocate, and mentor and made an impact on so many lives.
He will forever be missed but always remembered for his sense of humor, no filter, and loving heart. His passion for Harley Davidson motorcycles and classic cars was evident in his participation in various car shows, where he proudly showcased his impressive collection.
Friends may call at PORTO FUNERAL HOME, 830 Jones Hill Rd., West Haven, on Sunday, Jan. 12, from 3 – 7 p.m.
His funeral procession will leave the funeral home on Monday, Jan. 13, at 9:30 a.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in the St. John the XXIII Parish at St. John Vianney Church at 10 a.m. Interment will follow in St. Lawrence Cemetery.
Instead of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the West Haven Animal Shelter, 7 Collis Street, West Haven, CT 06516, or Do Good Feel Good Inc, P.O. Box 16823, West Haven, CT 06516 Attn: Michelle Caprio
Ben’s legacy of love, dedication, and community involvement will forever be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him. Sign Ben’s guest book online at www.portofuneralhomes.net
The post Obituary: Benjamin “Ben” Santamauro, 80, Beloved Husband, Father, Orange Business Owner first appeared on orangectlive.com.