PAUL F. GIANNONE, of Los Banos, California passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by family, on August 28, 2016 at the age of 86. Paul was born to Giuseppi (Joe V.) and Lucia Marie Giannone in Los Banos and lived his whole life there as a giving member of the community.
Paul was a 17-year member of the Los Banos Rotary Club, the President of the Chamber of Commerce for 2 years, a member of the VFW and American Legion, and served 2 years in the Korean War, receiving a Bronze Star and a Purple Heart. Most recently he was an active member of the Golden Agers Seniors Club. Paul was a golfer in retirement and, in his later years, had a passion for the SF 49ers and Giants, attending countless games over the years as a committed follower. Paul and his wife, Marge, had the great fortune to travel most of the USA and over 20 other countries.
Paul was extremely generous of himself to all he encountered – in business as boss, in family as husband, father, cousin, uncle and Godfather, and as friend to countless people of all ages and types. Paul was a character of great kindness, loving energy and an ever positive spirit – always with a smile and concern for others. His potent influence on others in this way is one of the legacies he leaves.
Paul was proud of his Italian heritage and lived it. He was proud of his work ethic, could outwork most in his day, and loved his life as an independent grocery store businessman, having owned and run Giannone’s Supermarket for over 25 years. Paul was the “go-to guy” for multiple building, painting, harvesting and family and friend work projects of all kinds after his retirement from the Grocery store. He served as a self appointed “medical assistant” for years, driving family, friends to multiple doctor’s appointments near and far in a moments notice.
Beyond that, Paul most enjoyed and delighted in his wife of 63 years, Marjorie, his children Jeff and Lisa, and his 5 granddaughters, Jennifer, Janie, Sofia, Lucia and Tullia. He loved them deeply and showed it exuberantly. Paul remained a dear and committed friend to uncountable numbers over the decades, touching lives in lasting ways. Paul and his spirit will be deeply missed by all.
Paul’s rosary will be held on Thursday, September 1st at 7 pm at Whitehurst Funeral Chapel. Funeral services will begin at 10 am on Friday, September 2nd at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church.
Services under the direction of Whitehurst Funeral Chapel~Los Banos.