Obituary: Richard G. Santospago

(From the Brookings-Smith Funeral Home) 

Richard G. Santospago, 66, died peacefully with his family by his side, April 21, 2013, at a Bangor hospital. He was born September 14, 1946, in Natick, MA, the son of Peter and Shirley (Shepard) Santospago.

Richard was the captain of his high school football and baseball teams. He served with honor in the United States Marine Corps from 1966 to 1969, rising to the rank of Sergeant. He is a Vietnam veteran and was awarded the following medals the Vietnam Service Medal with three Bronze Battle Stars, the Viet Nam Campaign Medal, and Presidential Unit Citation.

He owned the floor sanding business, Norwood Floors for 25 years. Richard volunteered as and EMT for 10 years, coached baseball for 18 years. He loved to share his love for the game and many say he was the best coach they ever had. Richard was an incredibly devoted father. He loved his girls more than anything and he always put them first.

Words cannot express how much he will be missed. Richard is predeceased by his father, Peter. In addition to his mother, Shirley of Norwood, he is survived by three daughters, Rachel Santospago of Bangor, Ruby Santospago of Brewer, and Rozalyn Santospago of Sedgwick; a granddaughter, Gianna Smith; four sisters, Judy Garza of Gladstone, MO, Paula Allen of Wareham, MA, Dianne Balfour of Dedham, Deborah Shepard of Norwood; two brothers, Peter Santospago of Norwood, Michael Santospago of Travelers Rest, SC; and many aunts, uncles, nieces, and nephews.

A memorial service will be held at noon, Sunday, May 5, at Brookings-Smith, 133 Center St., Bangor. The family invites relatives and friends to share conversation and refreshments at the Family Reception Center of Brookings-Smith, 163 Center St., Bangor, following the service.

Condolences to the family may be expressed at www.BrookingsSmith.com.