Santo "Sam" Carita

Santo "Sam" Carita, 94, passed away peacefully on December 3rd 2025, at Ocala Health and Rehabilitation Center, Ocala, Florida. Born on December 14, 1930, in Phillipsburg, New Jersey.

The youngest child of Giacomo Carita and Maria Grace (Catanzaro) Carita. He was preceded in death by all his siblings: Carl Carita, Samuel "Toot" Carita, George Carita, Anthony Carita, John Carita, Sadie Botta, and Josephine McNicholas. Their memories remained close to his heart throughout his life.

Santo retired as a welder for the Cameron Pump Division at Ingersoll-Rand Corporation in Phillipsburg, NJ.

In his younger years, Santo found joy in deep sea fishing and boating at Lake Hopatcong in New Jersey. He also enjoyed bowling in a league, camping and practicing pistol shooting.

He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Shirley, his stepdaughter Julie and her husband Joseph Ruane , three step grandchildren: Joshua Ruane, Jamie Wilke, and Jessica Rennig; and four great-grandchildren. Santo will also be fondly remembered by many nieces and nephews whose lives he touched over the years.

Santo "Sam" Carita leaves behind a legacy of resilience and quiet strength. May his
memory bring comfort to those who knew him.