STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — Friends, family, and community members turned out on Saturday afternoon to honor the late Richie Sarnes, Jr., known for his role as Santa Claus in the annual Tottenville Santa Parade along Amboy Road.

Sarnes was a lifelong Staten Islander and a beloved figure in Tottenville. He was a dedicated mechanic for the FDNY, a position that highlighted his selflessness and commitment to helping others. His passions were diverse and heartfelt: he led motorcycle runs, sewed costumes for his children’s school plays, enjoyed cooking, and cherished quiet moments fishing or watching sunsets by the lighthouse.

“He would absolutely love the fact that we’re keeping the parade going and that it got passed on to us,” said Justin Sarnes as he reflected on the tradition his late father s

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