Florence Adeline Santilli

February 3, 1928 - October 11, 2020

Florence Adeline Santilli, age 92, of Crystal Falls, MI, passed away on Sunday, October 11, 2020, at the Iron County Medical Care Facility in Crystal Falls. Florence was born February 3, 1928 in Crystal Falls, MI, daughter of Alfred and Elizabeth (Stefani) Fabbri. She was a lifelong resident of Crystal Falls and graduated from Crystal Falls High School in 1945. She attended one year of business college. Florence married William Santilli on June 5, 1948 at the Guardian Angels Church. He preceded her in death on December 17, 2005. Florence was a lifelong member of Guardian Angels Parish where for 40 years she volunteered her services as sacristan, a sexton, a caretaker, and was referred to as a “candlelight stewardess.” Her devotion to family, faith, and church was unfailing. Florence was an accordion player for Nancy’s Trio for over 30 years where they provided music for many gatherings throughout the Upper Peninsula. She was an accomplished musician and loved to entertain. She had a passion for cooking, especially spaghetti with homemade noodles and polenta with chicken livers. For decades she arranged meals to be delivered to many elderly and “shut ins” in our community. She lived her life as a true servant of God. She is survived by her three children, Chris Heiskanen of Marquette, MI, Mary Kudwa of Crystal Falls, MI, and Bill (Sally) Santilli of Crystal Falls, MI; one brother, Chet (Faye) Fabbri of Crystal Falls, MI; five grandchildren, Darrin (Kim) Kudwa, Katie Kudwa, Tony (Lacy) Santilli, Tricia Heiskanen, and Scott (Kristina) Santilli; five great-grandchildren, Kenedy, Kaylynn, Cruz, Quinn, and Mila. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband; two sons-in-law, Dave Kudwa and Larry Heiskanen; and three brothers, Angelo, Attilio, and Bay Fabbri. Funeral services will be held Thursday, October 15, 2020, at 11:00 am at the Guardian Angels Church in Crystal Falls. Fr. Daniel Malone will offer the Mass of Christian Burial. Interment will take place next to her husband in Evergreen Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, a memorial will be established in her memory. Condolences to the family of Florence Santilli may be expressed online at www.nashfuneralhome.net The family has entrusted to Nash Funeral Home and Cremation Services with arrangements.