William Joseph Santore

William Joseph Santore, age 91, of Chardon, Ohio, passed away peacefully on November 28, 2025, at Maplewood at Chardon. Born on August 12, 1934, in Cleveland, Ohio, to Thomas and Sadie (nee: Totarella) Santore, Bill lived a full and loving life surrounded by family and friends.
A graduate of Mayfield High School, Bill was the captain of the football team, and it was during these early years that he developed the leadership and loyalty that defined him throughout his life. In 1954, he married the love of his life, Ruth Farron, and together they raised their family in Chardon. Their marriage was filled with devotion and warmth until Ruth's passing in 2006, a loss Bill carried tenderly in his heart.
Bill worked for Chrysler in Twinsburg, Ohio, as a Safety Director for 38 years, earning the respect of colleagues through his dedication and steady presence. Outside of work, he enjoyed golf, hunting, car racing, traveling, and spending winters in New Smyrna, Florida. He was also a lifelong Cleveland sports fan, cheering faithfully for his hometown teams.
Above all, Bill was a family man. his wife, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren were his greatest joy. He was known for his kindness, his welcoming smile, and the love he freely gave to those around him. Bill's gentle spirit, steady guidance, and genuine care for others will be remembered always.
Bill is survived by his children, William J. (Joyce) Santore Jr. of Munson Township, Gary (Laverne) Santore of Middlefield, and Paula (Michael) Tice of Aurora; his grandchildren, Heather (Brian) Boehnlein, Todd Santore, Rick (Jo) Ceculski, Cheryl (John) Long, Denise (Joel) Billock, Lindsay (Dr. Ryan) Tomlinson, and Gary (Jennifer) Santore, Tyler, Nathan and Alexis Tice; his great-grandchildren, Addison Boehnlein, Taylor and Levi Santore, Kara, Ryan, Isabella, Sabrina, Robby, Abby, Ben, Ransom, Alden, and Lydia; and his great-great-grandchildren, Nathan, Brooke, and Margo; sister Florence Srp of Seven Hills, OH.
Preceded in death by his parents, beloved wife, Ruth; daughter, Laurie Santore; sister, Rita and brother Thomas "Doc" Santore. Visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m., with the Mass of Christian Burial following at 10:00 a.m., on Friday, December 5, 2025, all held at St. Mary Catholic Church, 401 North Street, Chardon, Ohio 44024. A burial will follow at All Souls Cemetery.
The family suggests donations be made to the Hattie Larlham Foundation, 9772 Diagonal Road, Mantua, Ohio 44255 or www.hattielarlham.org.
Arrangements are entrusted to Burr Funeral Home and Cremation Service. Online condolences and memories may be shared at www.burrservice.com. Bill's love, kindness, and steady warmth will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. He will be deeply missed.