Arturo Santos

Arturo Santos, known as "SweetheART" to his wife of 16 years, Cheryl; "Art" to his family and friends, unexpectedly passed away on Sept. 14, 2020. He was 48 years young. Art was born in New Jersey in 1971. He lived in several places growing up, including New Jersey, Pennsylvania, California, and Puerto Rico. He moved to California in his teens, a few years later, he was able to fulfill his dream and signed up for the military. He proudly served in the Navy for 4 years. He loved talking to fellow veterans and sometimes to just be a listening ear when needed. After the military, he started working in the healthcare industry. This is where he met the love of his life, Cheryl. They were blessed with 16 beautiful years together. He was a loving husband, had a gentle spirit, and his heart was pure gold. Art and Cheryl built a life together in the midwest, and Art mentioned many times how he loved the quiet, more relaxed life. He was a very proud dog dad to their rescued fur baby, ReeCee. 

Art absolutely loved football, and the excitement he expressed while watching his favorite team play was contagious! Go, Buccaneers! You'd often see him dressed in full support for his team. I can hear him now cheering them on. 

Our thoughts of his greatest times are our most cherished memories now. Traveling, listening to music, reading about history and theology, and playing ultimate frisbee with his friends were some of his favorite pastimes. 

To know Art, you knew peace. He was always the calm in the storm. He had the kindest soul, and right away, you knew he was a good man. Art's selfless desire was to lend a helping hand whenever he could. His patience could move mountains. Art brought so much joy to anyone who knew him, especially his wife, Cheryl. He was her rock and her protector. He will be missed terribly by all who knew how precious he was. Art's smile and memory will forever be etched in our minds. We were the ones honored and blessed to know him, hug him, and to shake his hand. 

Art became a caregiver to his dad, Sonny, earlier this year. He was very proud to do so. He loved his family fiercely. 

Art is survived by his loving wife, Cheryl; his father, Sonny Santos; his maternal grandmother, Marina Santiago; his brother, Rick Santos; his sister, Angelica Bugarin; his Mother in law, Judy Bryant; and many other beloved family members, including Uncles, Aunts, Cousins, nephews, sisters in law, brothers in law, and so many dear friends. He is preceded in death by his mother, Susana Santiago Santos, and stepmother Bella Santos.  

In lieu of flowers, please donate to any veterans organization in Art's name. 

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