Michael “Newman” Santos, 67, of Newcastle, passed away unexpectedly on the morning of Jan. 16 at his home. Born on Jan. 7, 1948 in Provincetown, Mass., he was the son of Sylvester and Vivian (Souza) Santos.
Mike grew up in Massachusetts and followed in the footsteps of his father to the sea as a commercial fisherman. His fond memories on the water were many, including one in 1978 with Joseph Carriero and Ralph Andrews on the F/V Petrel when they towed the Old Harbor Life Saving Station from Provincetown Harbor to its present location at Race Point Beach. He continued to make many hauls over the years with captains, turned friends, Joe Francis and Bobby Kohl.
Mike met his wife Paula in Sandwich, Mass. where they later raised their two daughters with the support of his sisters and mother. He was a friend of Bill’s (for 25 years), and after long hauls lost their allure, he turned to house painting with his good friend Danny Monarch.
Mike was known for looking after neighbors and being an all around good samaritan.
In 2002, Mike and Paula found land in Newcastle where he built their home and found an instant connection with the community. He joined the Newcastle Fire Department as “The New Man” where Newman made great friends, and enjoyed years as an instructor and serving the local towns. Mike was quick to lend a hand, crack a joke or simply listen.
Mike was predeceased by his parents.
He is survived by his wife, Paula Santos of Newcastle; daughters, Kate Santos of Lucerne, Cal., and Nicole Santos of London, UK; grandson, Waylon Michael Kirk; sisters, Debbie Hnis and husband Kenny of Truro, Mass., and Karen Santos of Sandwich, Mass.; nephews, Todd Hnis, and Erik Hnis; as well as his beloved dog, Sara.
A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m., Sat., Jan. 24 at the Newcastle Fire Station, 86 River Rd., Newcastle.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Newcastle Fire Department, PO Box 270, Newcastle, ME 04553; or American Indian Relief Council, PO Box 6200, Rapid City, SD, 57709.
Condolences, and messages for the family, may be expressed by visiting www.StrongHancock.com.
Arrangements are under the direction and care of the Strong-Hancock Funeral Home, 612 Main St., Damariscotta.
