Nellie Mae Santo (Brown Kerrone)'s Obituary
Nellie Mae Santo (Brown Kerrone) Our dear Nellie Mae passed away peacefully on February 4, 2018. She was 99 years old. She had a long, full life and was loved by many. Her first husband, John Kerrone, passed away in 1959. Later, she married Sam Santo, and together they opened Santo's restaurant on 9th and Commerce in downtown Tacoma. Sam passed away in 1994. Prior to her marriage to Sam, Nellie worked many years as a waitress at the Olympus Hotel and Johnny's Dock. She was a special person and became a good friend to many of her customers. Her greatest loves were her family, gardening, the Mariners, her dog Miko, and most of all, HUGS!
She is survived by her children Paddy Nomellini of Tacoma and David Kerrone of Fircrest. Grandchildren Lisa (Todd) Kraft of Boise, John (Stephanie) Nomellini of Richmond, B.C. Canada, Gina Nomellini of Bellevue, Kelly (Barb) Kerrone of Tacoma, Kara Kerrone of Gig Harbor and Kristi (Craig) Lindgren of Silverdale. Great-grandchildren Joanna, Brian, Michael, Maria, Joseph, Samuel, Anne, Elizabeth, Connor, Clara, Anna, Carson, Casey, Rebecca and Rachel, as well as her dear friend and neighbor, Teenie Gerlack. Gramma Nellie, you have been our inspiration and will be forever missed and always in our hearts.
In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to the Tacoma Humane Society. A private graveside service will be held by family.
What’s your fondest memory of Nellie?
What’s a lesson you learned from Nellie?
Share a story where Nellie's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Nellie you’ll never forget.
How did Nellie make you smile?

