Santino "Sam" Villella-Rodio, 79, passed away peacefully on October 7, 2025. Born on July 29, 1946, in Motta Santa Lucia, Provincia di Catanzaro, Italy. Santino carried the spirit of his homeland with him throughout his life.

A proud first-generation Italian immigrant, Santino made his home first in Connecticut as the oldest child of six to Guerino and Maria Villella-Rodio. From there he lived in Michigan and Illinois before moving to Arizona, where the desert landscape reminded him of Italy — the heat, the rugged terrain, even the cactus. The land felt familiar, and in it, he planted new roots while honoring old ones.

Santino served honorably in the United States Army in Da Nang, Vietnam. His service reflected the discipline and resilience that defined much of his life.

With an independent and entrepreneurial spirit, Santino began working at a young age, selling ice cream as a boy and later pursuing numerous ventures throughout his life. Over the years, he built careers in car/RV sales, insurance, real estate, notary services, consignment, and more. He believed in creating opportunity through effort and lived with a determination that refused to be confined by a single path.

He valued discipline deeply, even while fiercely protecting his independence. Before marriage, Santino nearly entered the priesthood — a reflection of the strong faith that guided him throughout his life. His spirituality remained a quiet but steady influence.

One of his greatest joys was travel. He was especially proud to have returned twice to Italy, reconnecting with his family, and to have visited Spain, Canada, Ireland, Mexico and countless destinations across America. The world mattered to him, and he sought to see it firsthand.

In his later years, Santino embraced reconciliation, pride, and a connection with those closest to him. He will be remembered for his strength, complexity, faith, and the enduring legacy of resilience he carried from Calabria to Arizona.

A private memorial was held in accordance with his wishes. An online tribute has been created for those who wish to honor his memory and share reflections.

He leaves behind a legacy shaped by migration, service, enterprise, faith, and family.

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