John Peter Pizza

John Peter Pizza, 91, died peacefully at his home in San Francisco. He was the beloved husband of Judy Pizza; they were married for 67 years. He was the loving father of Joan Pizza, Jean Williams and Jack (Patty) Pizza. Beloved Nonno of Christopher, Genevieve, Katy, Mike & Jayne. His sister-in-law, Lillian Stretch, had a special place in his heart. John was devoted to his wife and family above all else.

He was preceded in death by his brothers, Louis and Renato, and his best fried for over 60 years, Ralph Manza.

A veteran of World War II, John served in the 5th Army in North Africa and Italy. He fought in combat but also made music as a member of the Solideers, a band that entertained troops in rest areas.

When John returned from the service in 1945, he went to work at Washington Vegetable Company, a wholesale produce company that his father started in 1931. John became a mainstay at the San Francisco Produce Market until his retirement. He served as President of the San Francisco Produce Association from 1967-1997. He maintained close friendships with many Market colleagues until the time of his death. His memories and stories would fill a book.

John was a lifelong fan of the San Francisco 49ers beginning in 1946 and the San Francisco Giants. His children and grandchildren continue his legacy by enthusiastically supporting (and sometimes agonizing over) the home teams.

John's grandchildren were his pride and joy. Every visit and call was the highlight of his day. Nonno was a great listener, a wonderful storyteller and the #1 fan of Christopher, Genevieve, Katy, Mike and Jayne.

We will miss you always and remember you forever.

A Visitation will be held on Tuesday, from 5pm to 7pm with a Rosary at 6:30pm at Halsted N. Gray - Carew & English, 1123 Sutter St. SF. A Funeral Mass will be held on Wednesday at 10:30am at Saints Peter & Paul Church, 666 Filbert St., SF. Private Interment.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the following: Hospice By The Bay, 17 E. Sir Francis Drake Blvd, Larkspur, CA 94939, and Saints Peter and Paul Church, Becoming Towers of Strength, 666 Filbert Street, San Francisco, CA 94133