Santino Joseph Contreras

In Loving Memory of Santino Joseph Contreras

Santino Joseph Contreras was born on August 7, 2012, in Sacramento, CA. He is survived by his loving mother, Christina Contreras, and his siblings, Marcelo Contreras, Gabriella Contreras, Christina Rose, Aaliyah Rose, and Camilla Aguilar. He is also cherished by his grandmother, Judith Engkabo, and his uncles and aunts: Andrew (Mona), Daniel, Alysha, Matthew (Valerie), and Anthony Contreras, along with many cousins and friends.

Tragically, Santino was called home to enter the gates of heaven on September 21, 2024, alongside his grandfather, Andrew W. Contreras, and his great-grandparents, Pastor and Lorraine Engkabo.

Throughout his short but impactful life, Santino attended several schools, including Head Start Preschool at Kennedy Estates, Leataata Floyd Elementary, Nicholas Elementary, Cesar Chavez Elementary, Howe Elementary, Kay Carl Elementary in Las Vegas, Nevada, Success Academy Sacramento, and was currently enrolled at Tully C Knowles in Stockton, CA. 

Santino had a passion for football and joined the Sacramento Kings Youth Football team in 2021. He also participated in a tutoring program at Howe Elementary, where he dedicated his time to helping his peers after school.

At just twelve years old, Santino touched the lives of many, leaving a lasting impact on everyone he met. Despite his youth, he had a remarkable ability to uplift others and bring smiles to their faces. Known for his big heart, he was full of life and possessed a one-of-a-kind sense of humor. If he wanted something, he pursued it with determination and passion.

With heavy hearts, we carry forward the legacy of Tino. The love we have for him will keep his spirit alive in the hearts of those who genuinely cared for him. He will always and forever be a part of us. Tino will truly be missed by everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.