WORCESTER___Janice A. (Ratté) Santo, 80, of Worcester passed away on Tuesday, January 19, 2021 in UMASS Memorial Medical Center, University Campus.
Janice is survived by her son, Paul J. Santo of Oakham; her daughter, Julie A. Ahlquist and her husband David of Stow; two grandsons Alexander and Andrew Ahlquist, a sister, Suzanne E. Taubert of Peabody, and cousins, nieces, nephews grandnieces, grandnephews, great grandnieces, a great grandnephew and friends. She was predeceased by her brother, George J. Ratté. Janice was born in Worcester, a daughter of the late Joseph G. and Evelyn M. (Beauregard) Ratté and has lived there all of her life. Janice was a graduate of Classical High School.
Janice was a dedicated employee for more than 40 years with Hanover Insurance Group and retired in 2011. She worked in the quality control area for many years and took pride in her work. She formed many lifetime friendships with her fellow coworkers.
Janice was a member of Blessed Sacrament Church for many years. The best time in her life was spent raising her two children and her support for them was unwavering. She was involved in the parent group at Flagg Street School and loved selling ice cream novelties on Fridays at lunch. Janice and her friends established the first concession stand at Jesse Burkett Little League and she thoroughly enjoyed being in charge of the candy sales. Being a grandmother brought her additional joy and pride. She treasured attending her grandson’s school and sporting events and was their biggest fan. She always looked forward to spending quality time with close friends and family whether it was at summer concerts in Elm Park, Queen’s nights, “club” gatherings, Friday night dinners or hiking the many trails around Worcester. She cherished her family vacation time whether it was lakeside in Shapleigh, Maine, beachside in Groton, CT, or day trips to Hampton Beach, NH. She enjoyed gardening, playing games, reading books and always had a snack by her side. She will be fondly remembered for her artistic talents including painting, crafts and her ability to make the most beautiful bows and exquisitely wrapped gifts. Her continuous smile will be deeply missed.
Due to Janice’s fondness for animals, particularly her beloved Jake and Brandi, contributions can be made in her memory to the Worcester Animal Rescue League, 139 Holden St., Worcester, MA, 01606.
The funeral will be held on Tuesday, January 26, 2021 with a Mass at 11:30 AM in Blessed Sacrament Church, 555 Pleasant St. Burial will be in Notre Dame Cemetery. A calling hour will be held from 10:30 am to 11:15 am before the Mass in Blessed Sacrament Church. During these unprecedented times, the family wants all to know that remembering Janice from afar is just as meaningful as being present at her services. Your health and safety is of their utmost concern. Current guidelines for capacity, wearing facemasks and social distancing will be followed. DIRSA - MORIN FUNERAL HOME, 298 Grafton Street, is directing funeral arrangements.