Louise Mary Santero

Few individuals have been as deeply rooted in Cotati as Louise Santero, who passed away on December 7th, 2024 at the age of 96. With a street bearing her family name, and a historic purple and white house, she was a testament to the history and spirit of the Cotati community.

Louise was born on March 23, 1928 in Merced, California to Italian immigrant parents Maggiore and Ernesta Forno. At the age of 10, Louise's parents moved her and her brother Larry to Petaluma, and then to their final home in Cotati where the family made a living raising chickens. Louise attended Petaluma High School, and shortly after graduation in 1947, she married the love of her life, Angelo “Shorty” Santero. Louise was a devoted mother to Ed, Rick, Linda, and Penny, and she’s leaving behind a legacy of 6 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren. Her long life allowed her to not only nurture a loving family, but also to explore her diverse interests. She found a job she loved, devoted herself to her animals, tended to her beloved garden, and even discovered a passion for baseball.

Louise will be remembered in Cotati for her infamous homemade raviolis, her award winning holiday decorations, and her beautiful rose garden. Those who met her will remember her resilience, strength, and her fearlessness to always speak her mind. Those closest to her will remember her generosity, her playful spirit, and her belief that if you're lucky, true love only comes once.

Louise lived each day appreciating the colors of her garden, savoring the feeling of hard work, and enjoying the unconditional love from her dogs. Her spirit serves as a reminder to savor life's simple pleasures, appreciate the small moments, and enjoy blowing out the candles on your cake, no matter the age.

A service will be held at Parent-Sorensen Mortuary & Crematory located at 850 Keokuk St. Petaluma CA on Monday, December 16th at 12:30pm. You can help honor Louise's legacy by making a donation in her name to one of her favorite organizations, Canine Companions, at canine.org/donate.