In Memory of Santo “Tubby” Gaetano LaPorte

Obituary

Santo “Tubby” Gaetano LaPorte, age 77, passed away peacefully on Saturday, October 10, 2026.

Born in Utica on February 25, 1949, Santo was the son of the late Anthony J. and Victoria N. “Vicky” (Mendito) LaPorte. He was a graduate of T.R. Proctor High School.

Santo worked much of his career as a salesman at L&L Furniture and Sears. He also worked a number of part-time jobs that he enjoyed including at the Stanley Theater, Utica Aud, L&L self storage, and Utica Billiards on The Boulevard. Santo loved seeing people he knew from his community at the many jobs he worked.

Santo’s favorite job was being a father to his two daughters and grandfather to his granddaughter. Santo was very involved in his daughter’s sports. He initially knew little about cross country, cheer, track, and volleyball but quickly became up to date on all the rules. He was their biggest fan wearing “#1 fan” t-shirts to events. He could be heard cheering for his girls across the track and across the field. Santo enjoyed trips to the casino, good food, watching the New York Yankees, reading a good book, and watching the Utica Comets. He also enjoyed spending time at the family camp - walking around the lake, visiting with neighbors, and reading on the porch.

Santo is survived by his wife of 38 years Elisabeth “Betsy” LaPorte; daughter and granddaughter Amy and Aurora LaPorte; and daughter and son-in-law Rebecca LaPorte and Mason Hedeen. He leaves behind many friends and extended family in the Utica area. Santo was predeceased by his parents Anthony and Victoria “Vicky” LaPorte and sister Theresa “Terry” LaPorte Gregory.

His family will be holding a private celebration of life. In lieu of flowers, Santo’s family kindly asks that you instead consider making a donation to the Abraham House. Santo spent his final days at the Abraham House in Rome where he was wonderfully cared for by the kind and compassionate staff. 

For online expressions of sympathy go to simplecremationcny.com