Mario Joseph DeStefani Sr., born May 2, 1923, in Hollister, died
May 16, 2003, in San Martin. He was 80 years old.
Mario Joseph DeStefani Sr., born May 2, 1923, in Hollister, died May 16, 2003, in San Martin. He was 80 years old.
Mario lived in Hollister until he married Santa Leonti and moved to San Martin where he lived until his death. He farmed most of his life.
Mario was a Navy veteran of World War II. He belonged to the Sons of Italy. He liked to hunt and fish, and during his retired years he loved to go gambling in Reno.
He is survived by sons Joseph Paul and Mario Jr. and his wife; sisters Judy Schwartz, Victoria Howard and Rita Freitas and husband Gene; grandchildren Geordia Prichard and husband Russell, Jayme DeStefani, Joseph DeStefani; great-grandchild Russell Prichard Jr.; and in-laws Carm and Carrol Rasmussen, Tony and Lillian Leonti, Eleanor Harden, Joe and Grace Leonti and Marilyn Leonti. He also is survived by many nephews and nieces.
Mario was preceded in death by his wife.
Funeral Mass was Wednesday at St. Mary’s Church. Burial was at San Joaquin National Cemetery, Gustine.
The family asks that any donations be made to a favorite charity.
Arrangements were by Habing Family Funeral Home, Gilroy.
