Santo “Sam” Di Donato, 62, of Trenton, died Friday.

Born in Trenton, he was a life long area resident.

Sam was currently employed as a supervising field representative with the New Jersey Division of Taxation.

He was a graduate of Notre Dame High School Class of 1966 and received an Associates Degree from Mercer County Community College.

Sam was an advocate for the rights of animals and was an avid fan of the Trenton Thunder. He had a great appreciation for art, and throughout his adult life, enjoyed acquiring a varied collection of artwork.

Son of the late Pasquale and Margaret Massara Di Donato, he is survived by his loving sister and brother-in-law Patricia and James DeForte, his beloved niece Jill DeForte, and his beloved companion Marilyn Machmer.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday at 10 AM at St. James R.C. Church, 29 E. Paul Avenue in Trenton.

Burial will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery in Hamilton.

Family and friends may call on Thursday from 8 AM until 9:30 AM at Poulson & Van Hise Funeral Directors, 650 Lawrence Road, Lawrenceville.