Violet M. Santonico

Violet M. Santonico of Roger Lane, Mill Hall passed away peacefully Friday, May 21 after a one day stay at the Gatehouse, Divine Providence UPMC in Williamsport with her children at her side.  She was 93.

Born May 5, 1928 in Mill Hall, she was the daughter of Jacob L. and Ruth Johnstonbaugh Fox.  As a teenager Violet worked at the soda fountain of Carrie’s Ice Cream Parlor on Henderson Street in Lock Haven and also Piper Aircraft near the end of World War II.  Until retirement Violet worked on Main Street in Lock Haven at JJ Newberry’s.  She became a fixture at the store and enjoyed the social interaction with many customers and friends.

Violet was Protestant by faith and a social member of the Sons of Italy.

On April 24, 1951, Violet was united in marriage to Lewis Lorenzo Santonico who preceded her in death in 1974.  In addition to her parents her oldest sister Marian Dunlap-Garbrick passed away in 1999.  She was also predeceased by a close friend and companion William Keefer.  They enjoyed many years together and he was a special grandpa to Lew and Nick.

Violet loved living along Bald Eagle Creek and enjoyed taking care of her trailer and yard.  She liked to mow and rake leaves, which she did until recently.  She was also proud to have obtained her GED later in life.  However, her greatest joy was being with her family.  She helped babysit her grandkids and never missed any event they participated in.  In fact, she attended a baseball game to watch her great-grandchildren play just two weeks ago.  Great times were also had camping at Sunrise Campground.

Violet is survived by children Lesa R. Santonico (Cindy Andrews) and Lewis L. Santonico (Barbara), both of Lock Haven; two sisters, Arlene Hoffman of Beech Creek and Donna Corrigan of Mill Hall; grandchildren Lewis M. Santonico (Erin) of Lock Haven and Nicholas B. Santonico (Karinne) of Beech Creek, and three great-grandchildren Eli, Micah and Mila.  She is also survived by many nieces and nephews.

As many are aware, Violet shared a special bond and relationship with daughter Lesa.  They were often together and Lesa provided excellent care for her during her later years.  Lesa’s love and devotion allowed Violet the opportunity to live at home.

UPMC Home Hospice staff as well as the staff at the Gatehouse are to be commended for their professional and compassionate care.  It was much appreciated.

Private services for Violet will be held at the convenience of the family.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the charity of the donor’s choice.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Donald Walker Funeral Home, Inc., 231 High Street, Flemington, PA 17745.

Online condolences may be sent by visiting www.donaldwalkerfuneralhome.com