Richard A. Santoro

Richard A. Santoro, 82, of Fremont Center, NY, passed away on April 20, 2024, after a long battle with Alzheimer’s disease.  He was born on July 25, 1941, to Mabelle and Vito Santoro in Brooklyn, NY.  As a member of the US Naval Air Reserve, he served honorably from 1964-1970.  He was the CEO of Reliable Fuel and Visan Fuel in Ozone Park, NY, for 45 years.  His knowledge, experience, and work ethic were lovingly passed on to his children and grandchildren.  Upon his retirement to Sullivan County, he made wine and various spirits, which he shared with friends and family. He enjoyed golfing at Tennanah Lake and in Florida, and traveling with his wife, Lucia.  

He is survived by his wife, Lucia Santoro;three sons, Richard (Roselie), Steven (Terese), Douglas (Ann), and his daughter Andrea (Lawrence); grandchildren, Brian (Danielle), Nicholas, Noah, Alexa, Tobin, Austin, Randy; and great-grandchildren, Henry, Charlie, and Brooklyn Ann.  He was predeceased by brothers Dennis (Arlene) and William Santoro.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Hospice of Orange& Sullivan Counties and caretakers Annie, Devon, and Charlotte for their loving and selfless care.   Celebration of life will take place at a date to be determined.  Memorial contributions can be made to Upper Delaware Volunteer Ambulance Corps, PO Box 258, Hankins, NY 12741 and Hospice of Orange& Sullivan Counties, 800 Stony Brook Ct, Newburgh, NY 12550.