Stephen Andrew D'Arrigo Jr.

Passed away peacefully at his San Jose home with his family surrounding him on July 12, 2016 at the age of 94. Stephen was born to Italian immigrants in Stockton, California on March 8, 1922 and came to San Jose 2 years later.

He was a graduate of Bellarmine College Preparatory class of 1940 and Santa Clara University class of 1947.

Stephen was a World War II veteran, taking part in the D-Day invasion at Normandy, landing on Utah Beach. He was wounded during the Battle of the Bulge. He refused his purple heart claiming that his wounds were not serious enough. After spending 2 weeks in the hospital and refusing to go home, he returned to the battle field where he then participated in the battle of the Hürtgen Forest. He was also awarded two bronze stars for meritorious achievement. Stephen was in the Army's 9th Division, Company K, 39th Infantry Regiment.

In 1949 he married the love of his life, Rosemary, and is now reunited in heaven with her.

Stephen was co-owner of D'Arrigo Bros. of California until his retirement. He was also an active member of his church. In 1955 he served as general chairman for the fund drive to build St. Christopher Church in San Jose. He was also the second male to join the church's “Adult “ choir of which he has been a member for 61 years.

Stephen is preceded in death by his wife of 57 years, Rosemary D'Arrigo, his parents Stephen D'Arrigo Sr. and Concetta Piccioto D'Arrigo, his son, Stephen D'Arrigo III and daughter, baby Rosemary. He is survived by his other children, Kathy Raye (Bruce), Joanne Giorgianni (Joe), Michael D'Arrigo, Dennis D'Arrigo (Laurel) and Patrick D'Arrigo. He also leaves behind eight grandchildren. Melanie Raye Syslo (Tim), Matt Raye (Maggie), Nick Raye, Joey Giorgianni, Michael Giorgianni, Stephen Giorgianni, Lauren D'Arrigo, Gianna D'Arrigo and four great grandchildren, Jacob Syslo, Luke Syslo, Clara Raye and Erin Raye. He is also survived by his only brother, Andrew D'Arrigo of Salinas.

A rosary will be said on Wednesday, July 20th at 7:00 p.m. at Lima Family Erickson Memorial Chapel, 710 Willow Street, San Jose. A funeral mass will be celebrated on Thursday, July 21, 2016 at 11:30 a.m. at St. Christopher Church, 2278 Booksin Ave. (at Curtner Ave), in San Jose. Committal to follow at Santa Clara Mission Cemetery in Santa Clara. Donations can be made in Stephen's name to Pathways Hospice and St. Christopher School Endowment Fund.