Heriberto "Berto" Santiago, of Bethlehem, passed away peacefully on Friday, October 2, 2026. He was the beloved husband of the late Vigermina "Virgen" Santiago, with whom he shared many cherished years of marriage.

Berto was born in Puerto Rico, the son of the late Julian Santiago and Maria Torres. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend who will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Berto was a devoted member of Holy Infancy Catholic Church in Bethlehem. He was a simple man with a humble heart and a gentle, soft-spoken nature. Though he was often quiet, his presence was always felt. He had a way of bringing comfort and warmth simply by being there. Berto did not need many words to show how much he cared; his love was evident in the way he lived his life and cared for his family.

His greatest joy was his family. He lived for the people he loved and treasured every moment spent with them. He was extremely proud of his children. He was a loving and caring husband to Virgen, who was the love of his life and his whole world. Their life together was filled with love, devotion, and cherished memories that Berto carried with him always.

Berto was also a devoted father and grandfather. He treasured the time he spent with his children and granddaughter, Sunique, whom he lovingly called his princess. He found great happiness in the simple things in life, especially being surrounded by his family. He loved family gatherings and always had a great sense of humor reminiscing about the good old days. He was a mastermind at playing dominoes. Great laughs were had in his presence and everyone enjoyed those moments. In his quiet time, he enjoyed playing dominoes and watching his favorite television shows. These simple pleasures brought him comfort and happiness.

He will be lovingly remembered by his son, Freddie Santiago and his wife, Julie, of Bethlehem; daughter, Nitza Santiago Yerger of Allentown; and former son-in-law, William Yerger III, of Bernville; granddaughter, Sunique, his beloved princess; as well as his siblings, Felix Santiago and his wife, Josefina, and Tina Montalvo; and many nieces and nephews whom he loved dearly. Berto was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Vigermina "Virgen" Santiago, and his brother, Monserrate Santiago.

Berto will forever remain in the hearts of his family and all who had the privilege of knowing him. He will be remembered for his humble and gentle spirit, his quiet strength, his deep love for his family, and the warmth he brought into the lives of those around him. His memory will live on through the love he gave, the lessons he shared, and the many precious memories his family will carry with them forever.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 A.M. on Wednesday, October 14, 2026, at Holy Infancy Catholic Church, 312 E 4th St, Bethlehem, PA 18015. Calling hours will be held on Tuesday evening from 6 P.M. to 8 P.M. and also on Wednesday morning from 8:30 A.M. to 9:30 A.M., all at the Cantelmi Long Funeral Home, 500 Linden Street, Bethlehem, PA 18018. Burial will take place at Holy Saviour Cemetery. A memory tribute may be placed at www.cantelmifuneralhome.com.