Mary J. Marinello

Mary Joan Marinello of Novato passed away peacefully to be with her Lord and her beloved husband Ernie (“Vero”) on August 5, 2015. She was 99. Mary was born in San Francisco on August 22, 1915 to Sicilian immigrants Carmello and Carmella Bramante and grew up in the North Beach district with her sister, Rose and her brothers Frank, Salvatore (“Tots”), and Dominic. She is survived by her son Frank, grandson Frank (Maria), two great-grandchildren, Mark and Katherine, brother Dominic, daughter-in-law Carol and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Mary’s roots in North Beach ran deep; she was born, raised, educated, met her husband and wed there. She had a strong connection to her heritage and shared it with those close to her, much to the benefit of anyone fortunate enough to experience her hospitality and cooking. For those and others, her kindness, warmth and smile stood out before pleasantries were even exchanged.

Mary’s lifestyle was one admired by many – one of faith, family, friendship, good food, dancing and laughter, all within a tight-knit, trusting and vibrant community. For younger generations, Mary’s storytelling was a living conduit to a bygone era.

Her love of this lifestyle was contagious and was second only to her love of her husband to whom she was married for 62 years. After moving from North Beach, Mary and Vero spent many years living in the Sunset District, followed by moves to San Rafael and then Novato. Each relocation came with siblings and their families moving to the same neighborhood whereupon the Italian/Sicilian/American lifestyle and festivities continued.

We will miss Mary and the joy she brought to those around her.

A visitation will take place at Keaton’s Redwood Chapel in Novato on Saturday, August 8th at 5pm followed by a Rosary at 7pm. The Funeral Mass will be held at Our Lady of Loretto Catholic Church on Monday, August 10th at 10:30am followed by the burial at Mount Tamalpais Cemetery in San Rafael.

Arrangements entrusted to Keaton’s Redwood Chapel of Marin.