Santo Matarazzo

Mr Brownstone: Sculptor, Artist, Handyman

Santo Matarazzo, 79, who lived on the same Carroll Gardens block in Brooklyn since arriving from Italy in the 1950s — and then set about fixing the neighborhood brownstone by brownstone — died October 23 of cancer. The sculptor, artist, handyman, landlord, and beloved neighbor was the husband of Lucia Matarazzo.

Two daughters, including Enza Bloise and her husband, Frank, of Newtown, also survive Mr Matarazzo.

When old age made his renovation work difficult, the so-called “Mr Brownstone” turned to sculpture. At his death, his artwork filled the home he shared with his wife. Nearly every available space is occupied by his art. Plaster sculptures honored famous or historical figures such as Martin Luther King, Jr, Bill Clinton, Muhammad Ali, and most recently, Barack Obama, the presidential candidate for whom Mr Matarazzo intended to vote.

Funeral services were held October 26.

Memorial donations may be made to Mother Teresa’s Missionaries of Charity 344 East 146th Street, The Bronx NY 10451.

The Newtown Bee        November 7, 2008