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
Date: Thursday, July 15, 2021
Time: 1:00 pm
Rev. E. Michael Camilli celebrant
Date: Thursday, July 15, 2021
Time: 2:00 pm
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Post an EventOur sincere condolences.
The staff of Klee Funeral Home.
In memory of Irene Antonette Santarelli, Dave Rowley lit a candle
In memory of Irene Antonette Santarelli, Dave Rowley lit a candle
Dear Anthony, We were so saddened to learn of your beautiful mothers passing. She was truly one of a kind. We always had a great time with your Mom and Dad. I don't know if there are slots in heaven but do know Sinatra is up there. Please know that she and you both are in our prayers! God Bless! Jim & MaryAnn Murray
In memory of Irene Antonette Santarelli, Marisa DeSantis lit a candle
Our thoughts are with you, Irene has been a good friend for many years and will be missed.
Our thoughts are with you, Irene has been a good friend for many years and will be missed.
To my special aunt who we would go to the Restaurant every Sunday for dinner when we were young. Blessing to you. You will be missed.
To my special aunt you will be missed very much always love you
In memory of Irene Antonette Santarelli, Sandy Flynn lit a candle
Dear Anthony , Christina and family, We send all our love and sympathy.My heart is broken. You are in our prayers. Love, Sandy, Kevin ,Mammy and family
In memory of Irene Antonette Santarelli, Nicole lit a candle
Klee Funeral Home
Our sincere condolences.
The staff of Klee Funeral Home.