Jeffrey “Jeff” C. Santarius passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Sunday, March 29, 2026. He was 66 years old. Jeff was known for being a hard working family man who was also a role model to many. If you met Jeff, you were instantly a friend. He had a free spirited personality but was always there to lend a hand.
Born April 2, 1959, to the late Melroy and Evanna (nee Kowalske) Santarius, Jeff was raised in Oak Creek attending local schools and graduating from Oak Creek High in 1977. On August 23, 1986, Jeff was united in marriage to Gail M. Brycki in Milwaukee, WI. The couple lived in Long Lake before moving to the Random Lake area. They later moved to Belgium where they raised three beautiful children and many family pets along the way. Jeff spent his career as a CNC Machinist, specializing in bearings, and started his career with Orion Corporation in October of 1987. He was a dedicated employee moving his way into the foreman position and mentoring many individuals along the way. Even through name changes, he retired from the company after 35 years, now known as MIBA Bearing Group, in February 2022.
In his free time, Jeff enjoyed gardening and canning the produce he grew. He liked to try new recipes and share his dishes with family and friends or take them on the hunt for a new restaurant to dine at. He especially enjoyed summer and sitting outside listening to music and having fires. If you knew Jeff, you also knew he was an avid motorcycle rider. You could find him in the garage tinkering on his Harleys or cars. Jeff had a passion for vintage Harleys and classic cars and spent many years building and rebuilding them, even helping his friends with their projects. He also loved watching the Green Bay Packers and Milwaukee Brewers play. Jeff was especially proud of his children and grandchildren and loved going on many adventures with them.
Jeff is survived by his three children, Autumn Rose (Adam) Ferraino, Grant (Mataya) Santarius, and Starr Noel Santarius. He is further survived by his five grandchildren, Cameron and Malaki Ferraino and Gwenevere, Harold, and Edmund Santarius and many other family and friends. He is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Gail M. Santarius, of 36 years. He is also preceded in death by his parents and his father- and mother-in-law.
Private family services will be held. Reinbold-Novak Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.