Michael R Santangelo

Michael Richard Santangelo, 60, of Pine Brook; previously Newark and East Hanover passed away peacefully on August 1, 2025, surrounded by his loving family and friends.

Michael was a devoted husband, loving father, loyal brother and a true friend. He was the heart of his family and a man whose selfless love, strong Sicilian values, and generous spirit touched everyone who knew him.

His greatest accomplishments in life were his wife Joanne whom he called perfect and his three children Francesca, Anthony and Nicholas. His love for his family knew no bounds. Michael and Joanne’s beautiful love story of 29 years, was built on trust, laughter, and an unwavering devotion to each other. His love for his family was endless, not just through his words but through the way he lived each and every day.

One of his greatest passions in life was baseball. Between coaching and never missing a game, throwing a ball around the backyard with his kids, many nights spent at Yankee stadium, and idolizing Thurman Munson, baseball was Michael’s escape.

Michael was a man of tradition, rooted in his heritage and guided by old-fashioned values. He adored Christmans, family gatherings, and the comfort of home cooked meals, especially his beloved cuccidate cookies. His booming laugh, radiant smile, and love of life made every celebration brighter.

He worked tirelessly to provide for his family, never seeking recognition, only the joy of seeing those he loved taken care of. He took immense pride in his roots and shared an unbreakable bond with his brothers and lifelong friends.

Above all else, Michael was the definition of a family man. His children were his pride and joy, and his love for them and his beloved wife was the truest reflection of the man that he was. A Frank Sinatra fan through and through, he led his life with class, style, dignity and did it “his way” until the very end. He leaves behind a legacy of strength, warmth, laughter, and love that will live on in all of us.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 29 years, Joanne (Giasullo) Santangelo. Devoted father of Francesca, Anthony and Nicholas Santangelo.  Cherished brother of Dr. Fredrick Santangelo, his wife Jane, and Dr. Salvatore Santangelo.  Loving son-in-law of Anthony Giasullo.  Dear brother-in-law of Diana Adams and her husband Bryan.  Also survived by many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.  Michael was pre-deceased by his parents Richard and Antoinette Santangelo.

Visitation at the Leonardis Memorial Home, Inc., 210 Ridgedale Avenue, Florham Park on Wednesday, August 6th from 4-8pm.  Funeral on Thursday, August 7th, assembling at the funeral home at 9:45am, followed by the funeral mass at St. Pius X Church in Montville at 11am.  Entombment at Gate of Heaven Cemetery in East Hanover.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Michael’s name to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, see donation box below for details…..

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