Saratoga Springs - Charlie "Doc" DiSanto entered into the light peacefully on Wed. Oct. 19, 2016, at home with his loving family by his side. He was born on August 16, 1923 in NYC, a few years after his father, Nicola DiSanto, had been able to save enough money to bring his mother, Santa Gentile DiSanto, and their three children from Italy after being separated for 10 years during WWI! He was the loving husband of the late Kathy Lotwis DiSanto for 68 years.

Charlie was a graduate of Evander Childs HS and completed his BS and MS in Chemistry at Fordham University. He first worked for Stalford Chemical Company and then in educational sales for 30 years with Encyclopedia Britannica. He traveled across the state of NY bring new innovations in learning to schools and libraries.

Throughout his life, he was a valued activist in his church and community, as well as an ardent supporter of his wife Kathy's causes. His most recent local volunteer efforts impacted Yaddo Gardens, Habitat for Humanity, Meals on Wheels, and Saratoga Battle Grounds. He shared his warm and genuine smile with everyone he met. We are grateful he was here for 93 precious years and his gentle loving spirit will continue to guide us all.

Dad was predeceased by his treasured w ife, Kathleen Lotwis DiSanto; his brother, Tony DiSanto; and sisters, Marian Scarano, Helen DiSanto, and Angelina DiSanto. He is survived by his beloved daughter and son-in-law Mary & Gary DiSanto-Rose; loving grandchildren, Maria & Matthew; cherished nieces and nephews; and countless treasured cousins and friends.

The celebration of Charlie's life will be at the Church of St Peter, 241 Broadway, Saratoga Springs on Sat. Oct. 29th. The family will greet friends and relatives stating at 10:00 am followed by a mass at 10:30 am.

Those wishing to remember Charlie in a special way may contribute to the following organizations in Saratoga Springs, NY 12866:

Yaddo Garden Association , PO Box 395

Mary's Haven , a Hospice Home, 35 New St. or

Skidmore College Charlie & Kathy DiSanto Scholarship Fund , 815 N. Broadway

Online remembrances may be made at burkefuneralhome.com

Captain Charlie's Journey

Standing on the beach, I wave to the gracious Captain with the big, warm smile, as he sails his vessel out to sea. I watch until the majestic sailboat is like a white speck approaching the horizon. Then, someone at my side says, "There he is gone!" Gone where?  Gone from my sight. That is all. Captain Charlie is still at the helm and while guided by the light above, he continues to navigate his ship in new waters. From other shores there are other eyes watching him coming, and other voices ready to take up the glad shout; "Here he comes!" As he approaches they can see his warm smile as he looks forward to his new journey.

(Adapted from a 19th Century prose by Henry Van Dyke)