Shirley A. (Vasil) Santine

Shirley A. Santine, 82, a  lifelong resident of Exeter, passed away on Wednesday September 25, 2024 at her home.

Born in Exeter she was the daughter of the late Andrew and Anna Koslosky Vasil.

She attended Exeter schools, graduating with honors in 1964, where she served as Captain of the Exeter Majorettes, earning the distinction of twirling a fire baton. Awarded a scholarship to Wilkes College, she pursued a degree in science. Later, she attended real estate classes at Luzerne County Community College,  becoming a successful real estate agent and broker. She spent many years working at ERA America Real Estate in Forty Fort  and concluded her career as the Real Estate Coordinator for Earth Conservancy in Ashley. Her work at Earth Conservancy allowed her to gain extensive knowledge of Luzerne County’s mining geography.

A dedicated civic leader, she was elected to multiple terms as an Exeter Borough Councilwoman, fighting tirelessly for the town she loved. One of her most significant achievements was securing funding for Exeter's sewer system after traveling to Harrisburg, a milestone accomplishment for the community. Known and respected for her passion, she supported numerous local civic activities throughout her life.

She loved to travel, often visiting the family farm in Wyalusing, Pa. or Cape Cod, Ma., her favorite coastal destination. Her most cherished trips were to holy shrines in the U.S. and Canada, shared with her sister Andrea. A devout Christian, she was a lifelong member of the former St. Anthony of Padua Church now Corpus Christi Parish in Exeter. Known for her kindness and generosity, she was always ready to lend a helping hand, day or night.

Predeceased by her grandparents John and Mary Vasil, her parents, her baby brother Andrew Vasil, and her daughter Laurie Ann Santine.

She leaves behind her devoted husband of 61 years, Benedict J.Santine, and their sons Benedict (Benjie) and Greg, all of Exeter. She also raised her beloved grandchildren Sarah Santine, Angelia Sampino, and Jude Satkowski,  and granddaughter Dana Santini and leaves behind great-grandchildren David Trombly, Mya Wasko, Jude Satkowski Jr., and Draco Satkowski.

She will be deeply missed by her sister Andrea Vasil of Luzerne, her brother Robert Vasil of Plymouth, her niece Christy Bonath of Luzerne, and nephews Jeffrey LaNunziata, Exeter PA Brian Bonath of Edwardsville, Mark Bonath of Denver, CO, and Frank Bonath of South Carolina. She also leaves behind her dearest friends and neighbors, Carol and Gary Gallup.

Shirley was a voracious reader and enjoyed a good debate. She loved music, especially Barry Manilow love songs and John Denver nature songs. She traveled to the majestic Rockies with her husband, sister Andrea and family. She became the matriarch of her family and was an outstanding cook hosting all family holidays at the Santine home.

Loved by so many, she will be remembered with affection and admiration forever. A woman of great faith and integrity, she is now with the angels.

Relatives and friends are invited to a visitation on Sunday from 4-6pm at the Gubbiotti Funeral Home, LLC, 1030 Wyoming Ave., Exeter.

Funeral will be on Monday at 9:30am from the funeral home, followed by a Mass of Christian burial at 10;00am at St. Anthony of Padua Church, ( Corpus Christi Parish). 224 Memorial St., Exeter.

Interment with Rite of Committal will be in St. Cecilia's Cemetery, Schooley St., Exeter.

To send the family an expression or an online condolence, please visit www.gubbiottifh.com

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