Louis D. Santos, of Melrose, died on February 2, 2016 at the age of 79, after a courageous battle with cancer. Louis was born in Cambridge, MA to John and Annie (Silva) Santos on September 24, 1936. He was raised in Cambridge and attended Cambridge schools. After high school, Louis joined the National Guard and served honorably for several years. Louis married Joan M. (O'Hare) Santos and had three children together, and raised them in Melrose. He co-owned Freeman Carder, a Architectural Mill, for twenty years before retiring. Louis traveled up and down the East Coast. He was also an avid Red Sox fan and would always try and make it to as many of his grandsons' events as possible. He loved hummingbirds; he even built a hummingbird garden and enjoyed watching the birds come and go. Louis' favorite place to go was his lake house in Ashburnham, MA. He built the lake house with the help of his family, making it a truly unique place that held a special spot in his heart. Out at the lake, Louis enjoyed boating and especially having barbeques for the whole family. He loved his family very much and will be missed greatly. Louis was the beloved husband of the late Joan M. (O'Hare) Santos. Loving companion of Kathleen Bento. Caring father of Joseph J. Santos of Andover, Patricia A. Sletterink & her husband Roy of Reading, and Sharon L. Santos of Melrose. Cherished grandfather of Andrew and Daniel. Brother of Anna Guida of Cambridge, Elaine Santos of Cambridge, Robert Santos of Mendham, NJ, and his late siblings Joseph Santos, John Santos, & Beatrice Poirier. He is also survived by many loving nieces & nephews. Visiting Hours will be held on Thurs. Feb. 4, 2016 from 4-8 PM at the Gately Funeral Home, 79 W. Foster St., Melrose. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Mary's Church in Melrose on Friday, Feb. 5, 2016 at 10:30 AM. Interment at Wyoming Cemetery, Melrose. Relatives & friends are respectfully invited to attend. In lieu of flowers contributions can be made to Hallmark Health VNA and Hospice, 178 Savin St. #300, Malden, MA 02148.