Patty and I enjoyed our meals with Santiago at Guarde East in Vineyard Haven.  He was world class at his profession with a Hollywood smile. Our deepest sympathies to the Gomez Family.

Kevin and Patty Blake

Santiago was an incredible man, who's heart was full of love. He loved his friends, he loved music and dancing, he loved food, he loved animals- but most of all; he loved his family. 

His positivity brightened the lives of everyone he was near. He lived life to the fullest- and danced to the music that life played for him. 

My condolences to the whole family. Santiago will be missed, but he will always have a place in our hearts.

On behalf of bellini italian bistro,  we send you our most sinceres condolences. He was a colleague and a friend. We miss you already.

Bellini team.

Where can I start? To say Sunday April 2nd was the call no family wants to receive. To hear this news was so surreal to both Will and I.

I have memories of you laughing, dancing, singing, and joking with us in that Jersey/New York accent of yours that was so distinct.

Our New Years Eve where we were at your mom’s house playing charades. And how darn good you were at guessing all the right answers. Your love for dance, and music which I could relate to. Never thought two men could dance better than me! Ha! You and your brother Will were the dancing kings. I guess we can thank mama Esperanza for that.

Your mom would hum a song to me and ask me for the title and before I knew it you had burned her a copy on a CD. She had a great collection of music thanks to you.

But now you’re both in Heaven, and I know you’re both dancing to your favorite songs. You’re in good company Santiago, with your family and our Lord and Savior.

We love you and miss you, but I know this good bye is not forever. We’ll all dance together one day.❤️

The first memory that comes to mind is one of the funniest and actually most recent I have of Santi. I remember one day he came over with Kai and his old folks and I happened to be wearing this black long sleeved shirt with an alien on it that said “I need my space.” I forgot I was even wearing it and he comes up to me real close like WEIRD just standing there. I was like “what’s up” and he’s just standing there holding his wrists in front of him while smiling and staring at me. He says, “your shirt said you need your space.” 

And ever since then when he came over he would just stand shoulder to shoulder with me and I’d remember it was because of that shirt and we would both laugh. Now every time I see that shirt and wear it I will always remember him and his goofy antics! 

Although I never saw him consistently, usually was for a birthday or holiday, he was definitely memorable. Always funny and trying to make people laugh. I’m sad he isn’t here, but I can almost imagine the day I leave this world and see him in heaven that he will stand right next to me again and ask, “do you still need your space?” Haha! 

Kai & Azure, 

Only time and tears will take away your grief. The music may have ended but the melody will live on in your hearts forever   We will miss Santiago's vibrant unique spirit. You were truly a blessing to us.  Fly high with the angels.  You both will always be Ohana ♥️ Aloha Nui loa  ♥️💋

Carolyn & Brad