William Santersero

The world lost a true American hero, June 9, 2020. He died peacefully at his home in Niagara Falls, New York. Bill was born on April 2, 1946 to Daniel and Marjorie Santersero, in Niagara Falls, New York. 
Bill was a patient man with a steel resolve. Always willing to help, with never an expectation in return, he was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and uncle. He was a veteran, a mentor, a leader, and a blessing to have in your life. 
 

He was educated in Niagara Falls where he graduated from Niagara Falls High School. He later studied at Buffalo State College. Bill enlisted in the US Army at the age of 21, in 1967. In 1968 he began his tours of duty in Okinawa during the Vietnam war. When his tours were complete, he maintained his military status for 20 more years. As a reservist Bill transferred from the Army to the Air Force. On May 26, 1977 he transferred again to the Air National Guard where he remained until August 1981. It was during that time that Bill met Erma Jane Parks, marrying her in the summer of 1978. The love Bill shared quickly grew to include Erma's four children Sheryl, Bonnie, Forrest and Jim. He was the dad they never had. Erma later died in 2010. 
 

It is only a heart like Bill's that was capable of so much love while still engaging in selfless acts of heroism. From serving in the war, to saving drowning victims, to disabling an armed assailant in a bar, Bill was always quick to engage. Bill was a gun enthusiast, he had a love for everything related to firearms. He was a long-time member of the Niagara County gun club. He made his own bullets and even built a few rifles in his day. He was licensed to transport guns across most of the states within the USA. He had a special fondness for the .45 ACP. 
 

Bill will be lovingly remembered by his four children, Sheryl (Paul) Papiernik, Bonnie (Dan) Lane, Forrest Johnson and Jim Johnson. Bill will also be fondly remembered by his seven grandchildren, Jaimie, Billy, Johnny, Jennifer, Jason, Justine, and Jakob; by his sisters, Susan (Mario Capannola) Chabala, Nancy (Wayne) Astle, and Ann (Richard) Kramarczyk; and brother, Michael (Amelia) Santersero. Bill was predeceased by his brother, Daniel Santersero. 
 

At his request no services were held. 
Though the pages of his life have come to an end, the book of Bill will remain open forever in our hearts. 
Rest in Peace Beautiful Soul.
 

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