Alfred E. Santosuosso

 Waltham – Beloved Deacon Alfred “Al” E. Santosuosso of Waltham, passed away peacefully Thursday, February 16, 2023 at Sancta Maria Nursing Facility in Cambridge. He was 88 years old.

Al was Born in East Boston on August 27, 1934, the son of Angelo and Frances (Riccobene) Santosuosso. Al grew up alongside 6 siblings in a two-bedroom home. He would reminisce fondly of the loving hubbub and laughter his siblings brought to his childhood, including stories of his mother’s homemade meatballs and pizzelis, and the delicious baked bread his father would make at his shop, Sunrise Bakery.

Al was well known for his gregarious spirit and good-humored nature; He loved entertaining others whether it was through acting, hosting, story-telling, singing, or mimicking silly sounds, most notably from The Three Stooges. His lively personality shone in the Belmont Dramatic Club, where he subsequently met, and charmed, his late wife Hannelore “Hanna” T. Arnoul. He also spearheaded a family reunion receiving gubernatorial and presidential acclaim and featured in local newspapers, as he gathered scores of relatives from around the country.

Al was a bright and dependable person, working for, and eventually owning, the Ezra J. Leboff Company of Brighton, specializing in plastics and electronics fabrication. He enjoyed 48 successful years there until his retirement in 2004, when he passed ownership of the company on to his son, Andrew.

Al had a deep, spiritual calling; In 1992 he began his preparation to receive ordination and undertake diaconal ministry. In September of 1996 he was ordained a Deacon of the Roman Catholic Church in Saint Jude Parish in Waltham, where he has been a resident since 1978. He was not only an integral part of the faith-life of the local parishioners but also to the countless children of Saint Jude School during his time serving the church. His congregation remembers him to be a good listener, confidant, and counselor. He had a knack for helping mitigate the circumstances of those in need and distress.

One of the last things Al had said was that he was happy. He wanted to be remembered as a warrior of love. This love was real and tangible and extended to all of his family, friends, and to his community near and far.

He is survived by his sister Josephine Gatta of Revere, brothers John Santosuosso of Arlington and Richard Santosuosso of Belmont, and his children and their respective partners Debra Dorsey (Daniel), Diane Funk (James), Jeffrey Santosuosso (Tara), Andrew Santosuosso, and Angela DeAngelis (Stephen). He also leaves behind his 10 grandchildren, 4 great-grandchildren, and his sibling’s extensive families.

In remembrance, Al was the brother of the late Rose Brescia, Elvira Simole, and Dominic Santosuosso.

Family and friends will honor and remember Al's life by gathering for calling hours in The Joyce Funeral Home, 245 Main Street (Rte. 20), Waltham, on March 24th, 2023 from 4 to 7 p.m. and again on the following morning, (Saturday March 25th), at 10 a.m. before leaving in procession to Newton Cemetery where his graveside services and burial will be held at 11 a.m.