Santo A. Zito

Obituary for Santo “Sandy” A. Zito

Santo A. Zito, affectionately known to all who loved him as Sandy, of Canton, passed away peacefully on March 16, 2026, surrounded by his beloved family. He was 83 years old.

Born and raised on the Lower East Side of New York City, Santo carried with him the grit, warmth, and loyalty that defined his hometown. A proud graduate of the Class of 1959, he went on to serve his country with honor in the United States Marine Corps as a member of the Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 314, the “Black Knights.” His time in the Marines shaped his life in countless ways, instilling in him a sense of discipline, pride, and deep camaraderie that stayed with him always.

Sandy built a long and respected career as a service technician in the hospitality industry, retiring at the remarkable age of 80. He took great pride in his work and earned a reputation for being dependable, knowledgeable, and always ready with a joke. His friendly nature and strong work ethic left a lasting impression on colleagues and customers alike.

In 1971, Santo married the love of his life, Anna M. (Bresciani) Zito, and together they built a beautiful life anchored in love, laughter, and devotion. They eventually made their home in Canton, where they raised their two children, Lisa A. Cibotti and her husband Toby of Norton, and Christopher M. Zito and his wife Krisha of Wrentham.

Of all his accomplishments, nothing brought Sandy greater joy or pride than his family. He was an endlessly loving and supportive father, but his heart truly overflowed when it came to his grandchildren—Ashley, Taylor, Michael, Anthony, and Guilianna. He cherished every moment he spent with them, known for hosting memorable sleepovers where he’d treat them to his famous banana splits and blueberry pancakes. His stories and laughter filled every room he entered, and his pride in his family was boundless—he never missed an opportunity to brag about them.

Sandy inherited a passion for travel during his years in the service and continued exploring the world with his loved ones throughout his life. Some of his favorite adventures took him to Japan and, more recently, on a family cruise—a trip that perfectly captured what he valued most: time spent together with those he loved most.

He also found peace and happiness while tending to his garden, fishing, hunting and enjoying the simple pleasures of home.

Santo was the cherished son of the late Nicholas and Anna (Lumia) Zito, the beloved brother of Patricia Volynets-Zito of New York and the late Frank (Maria) and Richard Zito (Eileen) and a proud Uncle to ten nieces and nephews.

Sandy’s life was one of devotion—to his family, his country, and his community. His kindness, humor, and unwavering pride in his loved ones will live on in their hearts forever.

Funeral services will be private. Arrangements by the Pushard Family Funeral Home, 210 Sherman St., Canton. www.roache-pushard.com. In lieu of flowers, gifts may be made to Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in memory of Santo Zito to support cancer research and patient care at:

Dana-Farber Cancer Institute

P.O. Box 849168

Boston, MA 02284

or via dana-farber.org/gift

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