TEMM Robert Sarutto Succumbs to Virus, Tenth Member to Die in Pandemic
A ninth New York City Transit Worker, and tenth Local 100 member overall, has passed away of the dreaded Coronavirus. Robert Sarutto, 59, was one of several members at the TEMM Jay St. crew quarters who had called out sick from the virus. His condition worsened in recent days and he died at his home in Staten Island. Brother Sarutto had 23 years on the job in the Elevator and Escalator Department.
Ralph Arpaio, a close friend and co-worker said of Brother Sarutto: “He was dedicated and hard working. He was always the first one to jump in and help another. He had a great sense of humor and a big smile on his face all the time. He was a good hearted guy, loved by all and will be greatly missed.” He leaves behind his grieving wife, Roxanne, and a host of friends and co-workers in MOW.
MOW Vice President John Chiarello said, “this is a terrible blow to LE/S and all of our 8,000 workers in MOW. We are all praying for his wife, Roxanne, and will continue to be there for her and his loved ones."
Local 100 President Tony Utano said that Brother Sarutto’s passing “is another heartbreak for Maintenance of Way and all of Local 100. We are all devasted by the mounting losses in Local 100 and across our City and country. I ask that all in Local 100 pray for Brother Sarutto’s family and friends during their time of grief.”