Salvatore Francis Arnone

Salvatore "Sal/Santa" Francis Arnone, 85, of Bernardston, passed away surrounded by his loving family Tuesday, 04/29/2025 after a tough battle with cancer. He was born in Enfield, CT on January 3, 1940, the son of the late Matthew and Carmela (Caramazza) Arnone. Salvatore was a 1957 graduate of the former Cathedral High School in Springfield, MA and he received his collegiate education at the University of Connecticut, where he would go on to receive his Master's Degree. He later served as an instructor for Western New England University. Salvatore served in the United States Air Force and was stationed in Okinawa from 1957 – 1961 where he helped operate radar systems. Salvatore was an engineer for Abb Combustion for many years, retiring in 2000. One of his favorite hobbies was portraying Santa. He served as Kringle Candle's Santa from 2012 – 2018, and he touched many childrens' lives as well as their families. He always would help the children understand the true meaning of Christmas, and many families shared heartwarming moments with him which they will remember for the rest of their lives. Salvatore enjoyed watching the Boston Celtics with his best bud, Nicolas; watching the History, Travel, National Geographic, and Military channels; watching Blue Bloods, and having his daughter Tracy on a mission for the best apple pie/dessert. As sad as his passing is, Sal would want all his family and friends to have "fire in the heart" and never give up while navigating through life's trials and tribulations. Besides his beloved wife of twenty- eight years, Patricia (Erickson) Arnone, Sal leaves his sons, Todd (Bill) of Somerset, MA, Marc (Julie) and Scot Arnone of Somers, CT; stepdaughter Tracy Hunter of Bernardston; and stepson Aaron Hunter also of Bernardston; and four grandsons; Nicolas Berte of Bernardston; and Cody Arnone of Millbury, MA; and Ian and Luke Arnone of Somers, CT; a sister, Agatha Shepherd, of West Hartford, CT; and a nephew, Richard Shepherd of Enfield, CT. He also leaves behind his Coton de Tulear, Brady Arnone, who will miss his morning belly rubs. Salvatore was predeceased by his parents, Matthew and Carmela Arnone; a son, Craig Arnone and his brother-in-law, Dan Shepherd. At Sal's request, there will be no calling hours or services. Sal's family would like to thank Pioneer Valley Hospice and Palliative Care for all their help and support during this difficult time. Specifically, a big thank you to Kerry, Shelly, Renee, and Sharon for all their comforting and dedicated care. Also, a big thank you to Northfield EMS, Bernardston BFD, and Bernardston BPD for their many assists. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Bernardston Senior Center, 20 Church Street, Bernardston, Ma 01337. Arrangements are under the direction of the Kostanski Funeral Home. For condolences, please visit www.kostanskifuneralhome.com To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Salvatore Francis Arnone, please visit our floral store.