Obituary of Lillian J. Santonastaso

Lillian J. Santonastaso, resident of Guilderland, formerly of Whitestone, NY, passed away on Tuesday November 20, 2018 at the Teresian House Nursing Home at the age of 91. Lillian was born in Holmdel, NJ on July 7, 1927 to the late Frederick and Josephine (Raba) Wojahn. Lillian graduated from Queens Vocational and Continuation School, Long Island City. Lillian married Frank Santonastaso of Astoria on January, 20, 1951. Lillian treasured the simple things in life, she enjoyed cooking, she was an avid gardener, she took great pride and loved to share her skills as a crafter, making gifts for friends and loved ones. Animals held a special place in her heart, it was common to find her nursing a bird, chipmunk, ducks or chickens back to health, she had great love and compassion for all animals and that trait has been passed down to her grandchildren and great grandchildren. Lillian is survived by her daughter, Victoria Elsbree (Steven), of Guilderland; three grand-daughters Cristine Rodriguez (Mervin), of Amsterdam; Gabrielle Elsbree, of Guilderland, and Nicole Libertini, of Filetto, Italy; and five great-grandchildren, Francesco, Lorenzo, Luca, Valentina and Mervin Jr. Lillian was predeceased by her husband, and her two brothers Frederick and Gerard Wojahn. A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday November 30th from 1 to 3pm in the Williamsburg Room at the Teresian House, 200 Washington Ave. Extension, Albany, NY. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Judes Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Mamphis, TN 38105. Condolences can be posted at ajcunninghamfh.com.