Stephen Santos ... heavy equipment operator; at 68

ROCHESTER - Stephen Bruce Santos died on Sept. 3, 2023, at Mass General Brigham Wentworth-Douglas Hospital. He was 68

Stephen had been fighting hard and strong against a period of failing health. Stephen was born Aug. 23, 1955, in Gloucester Mass., to Joseph P. Santos and Alice E (Salah) Santos.

Stephen was preceded in death by his parents and brother Michael Santos.

Stephen is survived by his loving wife Rosemary Santos, His Sons Christian Jon Santos, Craig Ian Santos, Stephen Santos Jr., His Sister Elena Santos, and his brother Mark Santos. His Daughter in-laws Marybeth M. Santos and Melissa Bame. His special grandchildren Shelby Lynn Santos, Sydney Rose Santos, Garrett Lee Santos, And his new great-grandson Preston Lee Chenard.

Stephen always worked hard as a heavy equipment operator, digging pools, landscaping, and grading in Florida. Returning to New England in the late 80s continuing his love of operating heavy equipment, joining the Operating Engineers Local 4 Union out of Boston. Stephen worked on The Big Dig project among other jobs. Stephen retired after a proud 25 years of service with the Local 4 Union. Stephen loved his wife Rosemary immensely and would have been married for 45 years this October. Stephen met Rosemary as a single mom with two young boys whom he pridefully raised, taught, and loved. And for that, they will forever be grateful for all his support, love, and respect for raising them into the men they are today.

In Stephen's retirement years, he loved to relax and watch Rosemary while she was gardening, he enjoyed family dinners, watching drag racing, and watching his team the Patriots. Stephen loved his grandchildren and always had special bonds with each of them. He will be loved and missed forever by his family.