Obituary of Rick Santomero
It is with tremendous sadness that we announce the passing of Richard Francis Santomero. In the early hours of March 12, 2019 at the Lakeridge Health Oshawa hospital, Richard passed peacefully in the presence of his best friend and companion of over 25 years Rosa Cupido. Richard is predeceased by his mother Francis, his brother Paul Santomero, his grandparents Nunziato and Sophia (Cowell) Santomero. He will be sadly missed by his cousins. Richard, in his 71st year, was born in Peterborough on January 8, 1948. He attended St. Anne’s Elementary School and St. Peter’s Secondary School. He then completed his studies at Western University. Richard began his 38 year teaching career in Cobourg, Ontario in the late 60’s. He subsequently transferred to teach in Bowmanville with the Peterborough Victoria Northumberland Clarington Catholic District School Board. There Richard taught both elementary and secondary students and also served as Vice Principal for a number of years. Richard’s love for his students and his passion for sports was evident in the many young people that he coached over his career, as well as the many co-curricular activities with which he was involved. Richard was an avid golfer for much of his life. He would take great delight in travelling to Florida each year to play at the various celebrity golf courses. In the summer he would often travel to Prince Edward Island to golf and challenge his skills. In the latter years Richard enjoyed his many visits to Stratford and family gatherings with the Cupido and Murray families. Richard was a parishioner at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Bowmanville. Throughout his life Richard was involved in a number of charitable and philanthropic causes including the Optimist Club, Red Cross, Knights of Columbus and Parish Council at St. Joseph. Richard’s kindness shone through as he was always ready to help a friend or neighbour in need. He was well respected both in the community and in his professional life. Visitation will be held on Thursday, March 21 from 2-4 and 6-8 pm at Northcutt Elliott Funeral Home, 53 Division Street North Bowmanville. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Friday, March 22 at 11 am at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 127 Liberty Street South Bowmanville, followed by interment at the Bowmanville Cemetery. A reception will take place at St. Joseph Parish Hall following the interment. In lieu of flowers, a donation made in Richard’s memory to the Bowmanville Hospital Foundation or the charity of one’s choice would be appreciated.
