Albert Mario Pruzzo, affectionately known as “Papa” by his family, passed away in his home with his family at his side on Thursday, October 26, 2006. He was 78 years old. Albert was born on March 1, 1928, in Madrone, CA, which is now part of Morgan Hill, CA.
Albert grew up on a ranch with his parents, the late Germano and Josephine Pruzzo, both of which were born in Italy. His brother Silvio and late sister Elma. At a young age, Albert helped his father in a small garbage business to help supplement the family business. The garbage business would eventually become Gilroy Garbage Company and then South Valley Refuse Disposal under new ownerships.
Albert was drafted into the U.S. Army in February of 1951 and served in the Korean War in the U.S. Army’s 2nd Infantry Division. Upon his return to the United States, Albert served in the 11th car company at the U.S Army Presidio of San Francisco. Upon his discharge, Albert went to work for Western Tile and Supply Company in Gilroy, CA in 1953. In January, 1954, Albert married Inez Poletti of Gilroy, CA.
A loving husband and father, Albert is survived by his wife of 53 years, Inez Pruzzo; sons, Joe and Jerry Pruzzo; three grandchildren, Emily, Morgan and William Pruzzo; brother, Silvio Pruzzo and sister-in-law, Colleen Pruzzo, as well as many cousins, relatives and many dear and close friends.
Albert loved raising orchids, hunting, fishing, gardening and ranching. He was a partner in the Columbini Ranch with Peter Columbini in Morgan Hill, CA. He did this for over 10 years and had many good friends who were also ranchers in the area.
He was a retired, distinguished member of the Operating Engineers Local 3 Union. He also was a Life Member of the Castle Air Museum Foundation in Atwater, CA.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, November 2, 2006, from 5-8 pm with a Vigil Service to commence at 7:00 pm, both at Johnson Funeral Home, 17720 Monterey Street in Morgan Hill. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Friday, November 3, 2006 at 10:00 am at St. Catherine Parish in Morgan Hill. Interment to follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Gilroy. Albert (Papa) will be deeply missed by his family and all who knew him.
