Richard C. "Dick" Santaniello

83, of North Providence (previously of Johnston), went home to the Lord, the love of his life, on Tuesday, January 16, 2018. Son of the late Charles and Olinda Santaniello, he is survived by his loving wife Diane (Long), five beautiful daughters, Diane Ferrara, Linda Mottola, Karen Edwards, Julie Brox and Cathy Harrison, 9 grandchildren and 1 great-granddaughter. He is predeceased by his sister Barbara Caramante and his brother Donald.

Dick attended La Salle Academy, where he excelled in both academics and athletics, winning the Journal Honor Roll Scholarship. He went on to Holy Cross College, where he played baseball and basketball, and was a member of Holy Cross' famed NIT Championship team. After college, he signed a major league contract with the Baltimore Orioles. He later began a 30-yr teaching career at Zambarano Hospital, working with special needs students and the terminally ill. Throughout his life, he enjoyed playing tennis, softball, and golf.

Dick was a deeply spiritual man who gave himself tirelessly to others. He especially treasured the time he spent in pro-life and prison ministries, as Journal Honor Roll Selection Committee member, and as both Special Olympics coach and CCD teacher. He was a vowed member of the Tau Maria Franciscans from whom he drew much strength and inspiration. However, his service to others as mentor and loving friend is how he will be most remembered.

His funeral will be held on Saturday, January 20th, at 9:00 am from Nardolillo Funeral Home, 1278 Park Ave., Cranston, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 am at St. Mary's Church, 1525 Cranston St., Cranston. Burial will take place at St. Francis Cemetery, Pawtucket, 163 Smithfield Ave, Pawtucket. Visitation will be held on Friday from 4:00-8:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Dick's memory can be made to Little Flower Home, PO BOX 40216, Providence, RI 02904, http://littleflowerhome.org/blog/donate/ and Hope Hospice and Palliative Care RI, 1085 North Main Street, Providence, RI 02904, https://www.hopehospiceri.org/HowtoGive/DonateOnline