Marco Anthony Disanto

On February 2, at 2:45 AM, Marco Anthony DiSanto passed away peacefully with his wife and daughters by his side after a prolonged illness. Born at home in Portland, Maine, to John B and Sara G (Fergatto), he entered the world on December 9, 1938. As the third of four children, he was a proud graduate of Saint Joseph’s Elementary School and Cheverus High School Class of 1957, where he was a member of the varsity football and golf teams throughout his four years. His senior yearbook fondly recalled him as “carrying the standard high as Cheverus’ dependable left tackle” and praised his exceptional driving skills on the golf course. He also excelled in intramural basketball and serving as class president during his junior year. Notably, he was voted the best physique in his senior year.

Following high school, Marco pursued his education at Saint Francis College (now UNE) and Wentworth Institute of Technology, graduating from SMVTI in 1961 with a degree in Building Construction. He played semi pro football for the Portland Seahawks, a New England Semi Pro football league at Fitzpatrick Stadium. He also dedicated four years of his life to serving in the Air National Guard.

In 1962, Marco met the love of his life, Carole Anne Handlon, whom he would later marry on May 28, 1966, at Holy Martyr’s Church in Falmouth. This year would have marked their 60th wedding anniversary. In 1969, his first daughter, Anne, was born, followed by his second daughter, Monica, in 1971. He cherished his daughters and dedicated himself to their well-being throughout their lives.

In 1965, John B. DiSanto and Sons was established with his father and brother. The company was incorporated in 1966, and Marco served as President. The primary focus of the company was commercial construction, and over the years, it has constructed several banks, fire stations, and numerous jobs for the city of Portland, including the Portland International Jetport, Hadlock Field, Troubh Ice Arena, Deering Oaks, Brunswick Naval Air Station, Windham Correctional Facility, and many others. He designed and built Harvard Common, along with his brother, John, a 16-unit condominium complex in Portland. He possessed a deep passion for his work, following in the footsteps of his paternal grandfather, Marco (his namesake), who was a mason by trade. He continued to work until his debilitating stroke in March 2021 at the age of 82.

His first granddaughter, Sara, was born in May 2000, followed by his second granddaughter, Emily, in December of the same year. His third and final granddaughter, Isabella, was born in April 2003. He was so proud of his girls as they were the center of his life. He was especially proud that all 3 granddaughters graduated from his beloved Cheverus High School. He was present for every significant event, from dance recitals to gymnastics, basketball, soccer, and other sports. Sadly, none of them played football! He shared his love of his work with his daughters and granddaughters. He would proudly take them for drives by the buildings he had built, sharing all the details with them.

He was a devout Catholic who served as Eucharistic minister at St. Peter’s Church in Portland and volunteered for the Bazaar for several years. He was also a member of the Order of Alhambra, a lifetime member of the Italian Heritage Center, and a lifetime member of the Bricklayers Union. He enjoyed golfing with the construction league on Thursday evenings and yearly fall golfing trips to Bethel.

He is survived by his wife of nearly 60 years, Carole; daughters Anne Taylor and her husband, Rob; Monica DiSanto and her partner, Joe Fagone; three granddaughters, Sara Taylor, Emily, and Isabella Zografos; and a brother, John W. DiSanto. He was predeceased by his parents and his sisters, Carmela and MaryAnn.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to Heather Piper, his caregiver for the past year. She provided exceptional care and love to him. Additionally, they would like to thank HSM, particularly Julie, Hope, and Sasha, for their wonderful support.

Friends and family are invited to a time of visitation Sunday February 8, 2026, from 1-4 PM at Jones, Rich and Barnes Funeral Home 199 Woodford Street in Portland. A Mass of Christian Burial will be Celebrated on Monday February 9, 2026 at 10 AM at St. Peter's Roman Catholic Church, 72 Federal St, Portland. Burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery, 1461 Broadway, South Portland.