Born in Providence, a son of Lorraine (Dessert) Santagata of Providence and the late Harry E. Santagata.
Ricky worked for UPS at their distribution center in Warwick, RI for the past 18 years before retiring in 2025. He was known for his quick wit, kind heart and being the life of the party. He loved spending time with his family, friends and grandchildren and being outdoors. He especially enjoyed camping and kayaking with his partner and soulmate, Kirsten. His favorite part of kayaking was getting out on the water and taking a nap in the kayak.
He had a kind demeanor and no matter what life brought, he always said, “It’s in God’s hands,” words that reflected the faith and strength by which he lived. Ricky was an avid sportsman and fan throughout his life who enjoyed playing basketball, golfing, bowling and especially playing softball with his brothers and lifelong friends. He was involved in the ASA Softball League when his team won the 1990 State Class C Championship. He also enjoyed watching and recording the NE Patriots along with the countless times he would rewatch their Super Bowl games! Ricky would also record his grandson Romeo’s football games so he could do “instant replay” and then afterwards, he’d give Romeo the phone so they could rewatch together.
In public and at every family and friends’ functions, Ricky loved to dance and do silly antics together with his younger brother Billy. Especially the Pee Wee Herman dance whenever he heard the song “tequila” playing. Most of all, Ricky loved making people laugh. He was always on the ready with a joke or snappy comeback. Whenever someone would say to him, “have a nice day”, he would quickly and jokingly respond, “don’t tell me what to do!”
Besides his loving soulmate and partner, Kirsten Calise, he leaves behind his daughter Stacy Varella, her husband Kevin and stepson Kevin III: grandchildren, Xavier, Romeo, Kyla: his mother Lorraine Santagata: a sister, Debra Abbate: four brothers, James Santagata of Providence, Michael Santagata of Warwick, William “Billy” Santagata of Johnston and the late Harry J Santagata: three half-brothers, twins Thomas, Timothy and Christopher Santagata, all in California: four half-sisters, Jennifer Eaton and Catherine Pannier, both in California, twins Lindsay Ann Pineda and Katie Rose Charron: And several nieces and nephews.
He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. His laughter, love and the memories he created will remain in our hearts forever.
“It’s in God’s hands.” “See you tomorrow!”
Want to comment? Click!