Joseph “Bud” James Santa JR.

Sunrise:  April 21, 1939                                                                                Sunset:  June 28, 2016

Joseph James Santa Jr (Bud to family and friends), departed this life on Tuesday, June 28, 2016 at 4:00 PM surrounded by his family at The Good Samaritan in Wexford, PA.  Bud was 77 years old.

Joseph “Bud” Santa was born April 21, 1939 to Joseph James and Sylvia Santa.    Bud showed an incredible tenacity and zeal for life, work, and love.   As a young man, he was a highly regarded member of many Pittsburgh sandlot sports teams including football and softball.  Even as a young man, friends and family identified Bud as a “Family Man” with a love and loyalty to those he held dear. 

An avid learner, his love of knowledge and sharing were hallmarks of his infectious, quick-witted and fun-loving personality.  He shared his passion for model trains, nature, animals, gardening and cooking with family and friends with such enthusiasm. All who encountered him would engage without thinking and immerse themselves in learning Bud’s topic of the day! 

He loved to “Roast” his family. That’s how he showed his love and kept you on your toes.   A straight shooter, but ever mindful of others feelings, he kept it real while inciting riotous laughter and joy at every opportunity.  Bud’s sense of humor and love of laughter were contagious.  You knew “Mayor” Bud was ‘In the building’ when you heard the laughter! 

Bud also loved holidays, particularly Christmas (fitting for a man named Santa!) and took it very seriously.  He spent months selecting just the right gifts for each and every person; a thoughtfulness not experienced by many, and certainly not lost on his loved ones.  His devotion and selflessness were continually demonstrated in his care and desire to please.  He was a strong, yet kind and loving man.

His fervor for life and passion for family only grew in later years after being stricken with a debilitating, and rare form of MS. This further epitomized his tenacity, strength and resilience.  Despite these challenges, Bud continued to demonstrate a “never give up” attitude. He will truly be missed.

Bud is survived by his loving wife, Carol Ann (Wiskowski), and his children Joe (Kim), Holly Ann (Jym) and C. Jay (Chris).

To our Beloved Bud, Thank you for the love and the laughs.  We will see you again!

As per Bud’s request, services are private. Arrangements are under the direction of the McDonald-Aeberli Funeral Home, Inc. 238 Crowe Ave. Mars, PA and additional information and condolences are available at www.mcdonald-aeberli.com.  In lieu of flowers the family requests remembrances to the Mars Area History and Landmark Society, P.O. Box 58,  Mars, PA 16046.

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