Benjamin M. Santosuosso, Jr.
Although recognized by family and friends as a trivia fan, Ben Santosuosso's enjoyment of T.V. quiz shows never took precedence over the real importance of his life's contributions. In whatever gainful pursuit in which he was occupied, he approached his goal with a consuming pride and a sense of accomplishment.
He had been employed for years in the men's wear department at Filene's downtown and at Angelo's and Capitol Supermarkets where he served as dairy department head.
Ben was an active member of the Dorchester community known as Clam Point where he participated in meetings of the neighborhood improvement association. As head coach of the Dorchester Baysides football team, he led his young players to successive winning seasons. His other victory of sorts was his being awarded the million dollar top prize in the Massachusetts State Lottery.
Although not formally trained in the study of piano, he entertained many gatherings at socials with his delightful playing, injecting his performances with swatches of unique keyboard stylings of his idol Erroll Garner. Mr. Santosuosso, in recent years, had dedicated himself to the round-the-clock care of his late mother, Margaret, who had suffered a major stroke until succumbing at age 93. Following his mother's death, Ben remained at his lifelong residence until illness necessitated his enrollment at assisted-living facilities on the South Shore where he died early Monday. He was 82.
Mr. Santosuosso leaves two brothers, Ernest E. and Alfred A., both of Braintree, and three sisters, Agnes L. Brown and Margaret P. Collins, both of North Quincy, and Therese M. Macdermott of Holbrook. Visiting hours will be from 4 - 8 p.m. on Friday at O'Donnell and Mulry Funeral Home, 138 Neponset Avenue, Dorchester. A Funeral Mass will be said Saturday at 11 a.m. at Saint Ambrose Church in Dorchester.