Leonardo “Lenny” Santarsiero, Jr.

Retired Chief at CL&P Was Devoted Husband, Father, Pop Pop and Friend

Leonardo “Lenny” Santarsiero, Jr. of Naugatuck, a devoted husband, father, grandfather and friend, passed away August 22nd surrounded by the love of his cherished family at the age of 90. Born December 3, 1935, in Waterbury, CT, son of the late Leonardo and Vita “Jenny” (Coviello) Santarsiero. Growing up, he was affectionately known as “Sonny,” a reference to the sun because of the warmth, joy, and optimism he brought everyone around him. In 1963, he married Sandra, his beloved wife of nearly 63 years. Together, they built a loving family and were blessed with five children and eight grandchildren.

Known for his sharp wit, magnetic personality, impeccable sense of style, and dance skills, he had a remarkable ability to make others feel special. He leaves behind a legacy of hard work, generosity, humor, and unconditional love.

Lenny was most proud of being a faithful husband, father, and Pop Pop to his grandchildren, who brought him immeasurable joy and renewed purpose. He enjoyed visiting them often to bring them donuts, slip them a little money, and make memories every Sunday for dinner at his home and on Atlantic Avenue in Rhode Island.

He retired in 2000 as Chief of General Operating at Connecticut Light and Power (CL&P) after a 43-year career with pride and dedication. Along the way, Lenny formed lifelong friendships that remained an important part of his life.

Soon after retirement, he went to work at Carousel Farms Deli, delivering lunches throughout Waterbury. The job allowed him to reconnect with old friends, make many new ones, and share his warmth, humor, and laughter with everyone he met. His familiar smile, trademark fedora, and friendly personality made him a beloved figure throughout the city.

A 1955 graduate of Wilby High School, he often joked that it took him a couple of extra years to complete his studies. His classmates voted him "Most Flirtatious." A lifelong lover of friendship and fellowship, he attended numerous class reunions over the years, including those of classes he could just as easily have graduated with.

Lenny served honorably in the United States Navy from 1955-1957, stationed on the U.S.S. Yosemite (AD-19) in Newport, RI. For many years he volunteered and fundraised for St. Francis of Assisi Church in Naugatuck and the Holy Cross High School Father’s Club in Waterbury.

In addition to his loving wife Sandra, he is survived by their five children Leonard D. Santarsiero of Naugatuck, Mary-Beth Santarsiero of Naugatuck, Donna and her husband Patrick Mulhall of Middlebury, Christopher and his wife Heather Santarsiero of Old Saybrook, and Amy Santarsiero of Naugatuck. He also leaves eight grandchildren Jack Mullhall, Willow Santarsiero, Emma Mulhall, Tess Santarsiero, William Mulhall, Charlotte Mulhall, Caroline Mulhall, and Leonardo Santarsiero, III. He is also survived by his brother-in-law John Galiette and his wife Mary Eileen and their two children Nicole and Matthew. He is predeceased by his brother V. William "Bill" Santarsiero.

The family would like to extend its deepest appreciation for the outstanding care, compassion, and support provided by VITAS Hospice Care; especially personal aide Sabina, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, and Assisted Living Home Care Services of Cheshire; especially Dazmin. Special appreciation is also expressed to the Carrelo family, particularly Paula and Gabby for their compassionate aide services, and Candy, for his many acts of kindness and skilled handiwork.

Arrangements – Visitation will be held on Thursday, August 27, 2026, from 9 to 10:30 am at the Buckmiller Ford Mengacci Funeral Home, 82 Fairview Ave., Naugatuck. At 10:30, his funeral procession will leave the funeral home and proceed to St. Francis of Assisi Church for a Mass of Christian Burial at 11 am. Burial will follow in St. James Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Lenny’s honor to Holy Cross High School’s Father’s Club, 587 Oronoke Rd, Waterbury, CT 06708.