Irene Antonette Santarelli

Irene Antonette Santarelli, formerly of Temple, passed away peacefully on July 7, 2021, at the age of 85. She was born June 6, 1936, to Henry and Concetta (DaDamio) DeSantis. She was the youngest of 3 children. Irene worked as a secretary at the courthouse in Newton, MA until she met the love of her life, Robert J.; and moved from Newton, MA to Reading, PA where the two were married April 28, 1962.

Irene was a remarkable woman who loved and cherished her family more than anything. She was known for her love of Frank Sinatra, enjoyed going to the casino to play slots, loved to travel to see family and friends & she always had a disposable camera in her hands. Irene enjoyed working alongside her husband as the co-owner & operator of Santarelli’s Restaurant for 40 years in Temple, PA. Famous for their white pizza, gnocchi and homemade sauce, people traveled from all over to enjoy their amazing food. After they retired from the restaurant, she worked at Giant food store in Muhlenberg running the salad bar. Irene was a dedicated Catholic and belonged to Holy Guardian Angel’s Church.

Irene is survived by her loving son Anthony Santarelli, doting granddaughter Christina Santarelli-Weimer, and adoring great-grandsons Anthony and Wyatt all of Reading, PA. Irene is also survived by nieces, great nieces, and nephews that still reside in Massachusetts.

Mass of Christian burial for Irene will be held on Thursday, July 15, 2021, at 1:00 PM in the Chapel of Resurrection at Gethsemane Cemetery, 3139 Kutztown Road, Laureldale. Rev. E. Michael Camilli, celebrant. Entombment at Gethsemane Cemetery. The Klee Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Inc., Shillington is assisting the Santarelli family. www.kleefuneralhome.com