William Joseph Santa Jr.

William Joseph Santa Jr., age 67 of South Bend, passed away unexpectedly at Loyola University Hospital in Chicago on Thursday, June 24, 2021.  William was born April 1, 1954, in South Bend, Indiana to the late William J. Sr. and Mercedes Santa.  Following his graduation from LaSalle High School, William enlisted in the US Navy where he served honorably until his discharge.

He leaves to cherish his memories his children William J. Santa III and Rachel (Kevin) Rayl, both of South Bend.  Also surviving are William’s reasons for living; his grandchildren Claire, Conner and Charlotte Rayl and Ella and Zoey Santa.  Surviving as well are his siblings Roxanne (Marc) Cohan of South Bend, Paul (Anne) Santa of New Carlisle, Paulette (Mike) Richardson of North Liberty, Ronald (Jacqueline) Santa of Granger, Kenneth (Mary) Santa and Patti Kobalski, both of South Bend and Mary Santa Thomas.

There will be a celebration of William’s life on Tuesday, July 6, 2021, from 5-8 pm at the Greene Township Community Center, 24600 Roosevelt Road, South Bend, Indiana 46614.  Cruz Family Funeral Home and Cremation Service of Osceola is assisting with the arrangements.

William was employed for over 20 years as an installer of fencing with CalPro of South Bend.  In his spare time, he enjoyed working in his garden where he grew the most incredible tasting watermelons, celery and broccoli.  He also enjoyed playing NES Open Golf on his Nintendo 64, attending concerts and listening to all types of music, and watching Professional Wrestling with his son.  William was also an avid fan of the Chicago Cubs and the Notre Dame Fighting Irish.

Most of all, William was a dedicated father and grandfather to his family. His five grandchildren were his reason for living and he loved traveling to see them and support them in all of their endeavors.  Most weekends, his grandchildren spent time at his home, and he regularly called, and video chatted with them throughout the week.

In his memory, donations may be made to the Lighthouse Autism Center, 3730 Edison Lakes Pkwy, Mishawaka, IN 46545.  To share story of William’s life, light a virtual candle in his memory, or share a message of condolence with the Santa family, please follow the links provided on the tribute wall tab above.