DOVER - Lawrence J. Santelli, age 82, of Dover, died Feb. 28, 2012. Born on Sept. 17, 1929, in Brooklyn, N.Y., he was the son of the late Salvatore and Mary (Marino) Santelli. Shortly after graduating from Alexander Hamilton High School, he was drafted into the Korean War, serving in the 25th Infantry Division. After his discharge, he was accepted into the New York City Police Department and appointed to the 23rd precinct for 34 years, serving in a clerical capacity for 30 of those years. Because of his long and dedicated service in the 23rd, an article was written about him entitled "The Two-Three's Most Valuable Veteran, Larry Santelli" and was published in the police department's magazine NEW YORK'S FINEST. He served as a delegate from his precinct to the New York City Police Department Holy Name Society as well as an officer in the Holy Name Society of St. Gregory's in Bellerose, N.Y., where he lived with his wife and children for 29 years. He and his wife retired to Columbus, N.J., where they lived for 18 years and subsequently moved to Dover, in 2005. They also wintered in Lakeland, Fla., for 18 years. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Agnes Van Dett. Larry is survived by his wife of 54 years, Joan F. (Guadagno) Santelli; a son, Alexander of Torrance, Calif.; and daughter and son-in-law, Mary Jo and Dr. Robert A. Moyer of Dover. Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Viewing starting at 9 a.m., Friday, March 2, at Holy Cross Church, 631 S. State St. Dover, where a Mass of Christian Burial will be offered at 10 a.m. Entombment will take place in Holy Cross Mausoleum, Dover. Family suggests donations in his memory be made to Holy Cross Church, 631 S. State St., Dover, De 19901. Guest Book Signings and Condolences may be made via www.ambruso.com. Life's End Services are by Michael J. Ambruso Funeral Director, Inc. Dover.