Saturday, April 24th, 1943-Wednesday, July 26th, 2023
It is with sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of William “Bill” Santi, on July 26, 2023, surrounded by his adoring family. We can still picture the mischievous twinkle in his eye when he would tell a joke, or the way his face would light up when his family and friends entered a room. Bill was warm, wickedly funny, fiercely loyal to his family and friends, and showed us all what it meant to live with a passion and zest for life. He was born in Copper Cliff to Assunta Santi (Cinel) and Gino Santi. Bill was raised to be a man of faith and after completing high school at St. Charles College, he attended the Scarborough Foreign Missions Seminary in the early 1960’s with the intent of joining the priesthood. One fateful summer, after 2 years in the seminary he met Madeline, who became the love of his life. After operating Pianosi’s Foods with his brother Eddie, Bill decided to open his own business, Burger Bill’s Family Restaurant, which was renowned for the recipes that Bill created. To the very end, Bill was known for his passion for cooking, and always had an open seat at the Sunday dinner table for the best marinara sauce you will ever eat.
After selling the family business, Bill proceeded to earn his real estate license, became an Associate Broker, and joined the team at Remax Sudbury where he had continued success and made lifelong friends. Bill was passionate about his dogs, baseball, hockey, cars and motorcycles, which he discovered later in life. He was the first president of the Harley’s Owner Group (Sudbury Chapter), and under his leadership established a toy drive for charity in Sudbury. An accomplished musician, Bill competed against some of the world’s best accordionists at a young age and won. He often played his accordion at many special events. Later in life, as having always kept extremely strong ties to the church and his faith, he lent his talents to multiple choirs, even composing music and hymns.
Bill is survived by his loving wife of 59 years Madeline (Jalsick), his daughters Lori and Stacey, and very special son-in-law, Chris Frattini. Loving brother to Gloria Petrina (Tony), Eddie Santi (predeceased), Eddie’s spouse Marie, and Fr. Melvin Stevens (predeceased). He was beloved by his nieces and nephews: Mark Santi (Barbara), Gina “Nini” Santi (Michael), Anna-Maria Santi (Bruce), Joseph Santi (Claire), John Santi (Sandra), Mary-Jo Cameron (predeceased) (Bill), Michael Petrina (Auri), Susan Petrina, Jennifer Petrina (Darrell), David Petrina (Jeanette). Loyal friend to Frank Moroso, Vilyja and Bruno Tassone, and Roland St. Jean. We are truly blessed to have had Bill in our lives, and the cherished moments we shared will forever live in our hearts.
A celebration of his life will be held on Friday, August 4th, at 10:30 am, St. Patrick’s Church, 39 Walford Road, Sudbury. Donations in his memory can be made to Heart and Stroke Canada or the Health Sciences North Foundation. Arrangements entrusted to Lougheed Funeral Home. For messages of condolence www.lougheedfuneralhomes.com.