Thomas R. Santacroce

THOMAS R. SANTACROCE, age 85 of Groton, passed away on Friday, April 19, 2024, at his residence.

He was born in Groton, on February 23, 1939, the son of James F. and Arlene Chapman Santacroce. He was married to Rita M. Bliven on March 28, 1991. He graduated from Robert E. Fitch Sr. High School in the class of 1957.

Tom last worked as a security guard at Foxwoods Resort Casino (27 years). Before that he had owned the former Luv Boat Café in Groton (12 years) where he got the nickname of “Captain”. Earlier jobs included managing Taylor Rental and a heavy equipment operator at Suneco.

He was a very active member of the Poquonnock Bridge Fire Department, serving as the treasurer for over 40 years. He was also a life member at the Italian Club and the Groton Lodge of Elks.

Besides his wife Rita, he is survived by his son, Thomas R. Santacroce, Jr (Jean) of Marion, Iowa, and his daughter Cynthia Santacroce of Oakdale, and his son Matthew Santacroce (Patricia) of Pawcatuck and his stepsons, A. Morgan Stewart, IV (Kristen) of Mystic and Zachary Stewart (Donald Pendagast) of Hartford. He also is survived by his grandchildren, Thomas III, Anthony, Steven, Katelyn, Matthew, Jacquelyn, Vanessa, Fiona, and Nora as well as several great grandchildren. 

He was predeceased by his brothers, James and Richard and a stepson, Joshua Stewart. 

Visiting hours will be Sunday April 28 from 4 to 6pm at the Byles-Groton Memorial Home, 310 Thames St. A funeral service will be held on Monday April 29 at 11am at the Byles-Groton Memorial Home and interment will be in Colonel Ledyard Cemetery in the City of Groton. In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be directed to the Groton Lodge of Elks Scholarship Fund, 700 Shennecossett Road, Groton, CT 06340.