Manuel Ollie "Ollie" Virissimo

MANUEL "OLLIE" VIRISSIMO | Visit Guest Book

VIRISSIMO, MANUEL "OLLIE" Dec. 27, 1927 to Jan. 11, 2012 Manuel Oliver Virissimo, born in San Diego, CA, passed away at his home surrounded by family. He was known by family and friends as Ollie. The third of five children, he was raised in the Portuguese community of Point Loma. Ollie began his career in tuna fishing in 1941 and quickly moved his way up to captain and ownership of his own vessels, including the Polaris, Pacific Queen, and Atlantis among others. His greatest loves were family and friends. He married Mary Jo Rebelo on November 20, 1949 at St. Agnes Church, where they remained parishioners and raised their six children. He found true joy in following and supporting his grandchildren and all of their accomplishments and achievements. A legendary storyteller and a tireless sense of humor; he was an endless source of laughter and quick to share a smile or a piece of advice. An avid fan of all sports, he particularly enjoyed horse racing, golf, and football. Never one to hold a grudge and always willing to extend a helping hand, his charisma and charm will be missed by those who knew him and were given the chance to "shake the hand that shook the world," as he would often say. He was preceded in death by his sisters, Mary and Julie, and brother, Richard. He is survived by his wife, Mary Jo; his brother, Roland; his six children, Ollie, Anthony (Yvette), Marianne (John), Michael, David (Angela), and Ronnie (Coranne); his 13 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. A viewing will be held at Beardsley-Mitchell Funeral Home on Tuesday, January 17th, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. with a Rosary at 7:00 p.m. A mass will be held at St. Agnes Catholic Church in Pt. Loma at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, January 18th.

Published in San Diego Union-Tribune on January 14, 2012 Print