Philip Nicholas Sansotta, Sr.

Philip Nicholas Sansotta, 95, of Boise, Idaho graduated from this life on August 18, 2017, and has gone to his eternal glory.  He is much loved by so many.  He was born in New Castle, Pennsylvania on August 2nd, 1922, the fourth of seven children to the late Nicola and Catherine Sansotta.
Philip lived a rich and selfless life.  He served during World War II as a Chief Petty Officer in the United States Navy.  He continued as a public servant in various branches of the federal government, finishing his career as the Idaho District Director for the Internal Revenue Service.
He continued his service in retirement through various pursuits including his church and Rotary International where he served as District Governor.  Philip was a member of the Italian American Club, and served as Corrispondente Consolare for the Italian Consulate.  In all aspects, he truly lived a life above self and demonstrated the values and beliefs of Catholicism.
He was a wonderful person who inspired so many.  Philip had an unending sense of humor and was an insightful, wise man who was always willing to take a moment to advise without judgement.  In recent days Phil spoke of his love for his friends and family and stated, “it was such a privilege to serve you.” 
Philip was predeceased by his wife of 58 years, Barbara Jane Sansotta, who passed away in 2003.  They had a wonderful life together that included bringing eight children into the world.  He later married Maura Holly-Sansotta and together they enjoyed several years of global travel.
Philip is survived by his wife Maura Holly-Sansotta, his children Brie Sansotta, Philip Sansotta Jr. (Amy), Roc Sansotta (Amira), Dominic Sansotta (Kathy Jo), Catherine Sansotta, Marc Sansotta (Suzette), Suzanne Robertson (Tonie), and Patricia Sansotta (Natalie).  He is also survived by his step children Olivia Holly, Monica Holly and Sylvia Wirth, his 18 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren.  Philip also has two surviving siblings Lucretia Baker and Eleanor Fennig.
Funeral services were held at Saint Mary’s Catholic Church and Cloverdale Cemetery on August 21st.  A memorial service will be held at noon, Tuesday, August 29th, 2017, at St Mary’s Catholic Church, 2612 West State Street, Boise, Idaho 83702, (208) 344-2597. 
Many have very distinct memories of Philip and his understanding of grace.  His outlook of life amidst all he had been through is beyond admirable.  We can only strive to be a fraction of the man he was. We love and miss him and are better people because of him.