Mr. Louis D. "Louie" DeSantis

N. UTICA – Mr. Louis D. “Louie” DeSantis, age 83, passed away on Tuesday, June 11, 2024, in the comfort and dignity of his home. He was cared for by his family during his illness and was blessed to have them by his side until his passing. Born in Utica on May 31, 1941, Louis was the son of the late John and Elena “Helen” (Cecilia) DeSantis. He graduated from Utica Catholic Academy in 1959. Louie began his work career at the UNIVAC Corporation prior to enlisting in the U.S. Army, stationed in Germany, where he served from 1962-1964; he was immensely proud to have honorably defended his country with great dedication. Upon his return to Utica, he resumed his employment at the UNIVAC Corporation where he was a Quality Control Engineer, a position he held for 17 years. It was love at first sight when Louie met the former Linda M. Testa and the two married on July 16, 1966. Linda admired that Louie was always pristine in his attire. His Italian heritage instilled in him the respect and love that he shared with his wife which was a key factor that blended into their relationship, making them an exceptional couple. They celebrated a milestone of nearly 58 years together. Their children marveled at their parents’ ability to communicate, and the sincere consideration Louie showed his wife and their mother. Louie accepted a position at Empire Circuits and then worked at Hamilton Digital. He went on to spend 11 years with PAR Technology as a Quality Control Engineer Production Supervisor for circuit boards until his retirement in 1995. He could not remain still because Linda was working, so he accepted a position with Birnie Bus Service. He was admired and loved by the students of the Utica City School District for his compassion and desire to make sure they were safe. Louie was always readily available, never saying no. He was engaged and provided a safety net, always wanting to be sure anything that was needed was handled. He was a confidant, a parent counselor, and his words were sought out because they were trusted and true. He was reserved yet very approachable and the “go-to man.” When the grandchildren blessed his life, he became the “emergency babysitter” and “taxi driver” for any occasion, he was delighted to be there for them. He loved the kids dearly, knew all their favorite spots, and delighted in taking them there. He was vigilant of 2 generations of his family and was an important part of their daily lives and activities. Louis enjoyed breakfast with "the guys" almost every day frequenting their favorite diners. Sports, family, health, and politics were often the topics of conversation. He participated in co-ed bowling leagues and was quite proficient on the lanes. He was a master water skier at the family camp on the St. Lawrence River, where many beautiful summers were spent. Louie enjoyed baseball and basketball of which he was a basketball coach for St. Anthony’s. He was an avid NY Yankees fan and never missed watching a game. When it came to football, the NY Giants were his team, and he also followed the Syracuse Orange men’s basketball team. Louie held close the intimacy of having his family together at his home to celebrate his 83rd birthday this past May. He also loved to cook for his family and the highlight of each family celebration, was Louie’s pasta sauce. Louie was a man of faith. He prayed, read the bible, attended churches, and lived God's word. This was what guided him through the stages of his illness, and he had assurance of his salvation. Louie is survived by his soulmate, Linda; and his daughters and sons-in-law, all of whom were a true blessing to him, Lisa and Larry Crossett, and Laken and Victor Falcon. He is now reunited with his infant daughter, Lauren, who preceded him. He also leaves his precious grandchildren, Courtney and Kenny Tinsley, Jr., Cassidy and Connor Graff, Cullen Crossett and Angela Lince, Shanley Crossett; Louis Gonzalez, and Jaelin Gonzalez (who her Papa called “Jae Bird”); adored great-grandchildren, Kenneth “Bubby” Tinsley III, Newton Tinsley; Rhea Graff, and Alton Graff. Louie was predeceased by his sisters and brothers-in-law, Mimma and Olvidio Ceccotti, Yolanda and Peter DePaolis, and Louise and Leonard DeGrace. He also leaves his memory to numerous nieces and nephews, with special mention of David DeGrace, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins; and in-laws, Diana and Peter Martin, and Carole Dapice. During his life, he was blessed with many friendships that he treasured. He was additionally predeceased by his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Donald and Rose (DeTraglia) Testa; nephew, Mark J. DeGrace; and niece, Renee Martin Bouras. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, June 18, 2024, from 5:00-7:00 p.m. at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Louis' funeral service and Celebration of Life will commence at 7:00 p.m. at the funeral home. For those wishing to partake in his funeral cortege to Calvary Cemetery where Military Honors will be conferred by the U.S. Army, you are welcome to assemble at the funeral home on Wednesday morning, June 19, 2024, at 10:30 a.m.

Mr. Louis D. "Louie" DeSantis

May 31, 1941 - June 11, 2024