Jack Anthony Cancellieri

Born to Mary and Larry Cancellieri, Jack was the second of their sons, following his older brother and lifelong best friend, Dino. Jack was truly larger than life—strong, charismatic, hardworking, loyal, and unmistakably himself. He had a commanding presence, a quick wit, and a heart of gold. He lived life on his own terms and earned the respect and love of countless people along the way.

Jack was an entrepreneur at heart, with an incredible instinct for business and a drive to build something great. In the mid-1980s, he founded Francisco Distributing, quickly growing it into one of California’s largest produce distribution companies. He later formed Legacy Farms, which he built into a powerhouse in the produce industry.

Jack also partnered with Legend Produce growing melons, helping expand it from a local startup into a year-round operation throughout Arizona, California, Mexico, and Central America. Along the way, he was involved in many other successful entrepreneurial ventures that fueled his passion for building businesses, creating opportunities, and helping others succeed.

For Jack, success was never just about business—it was about the people. He loved the deal, the challenge, and the opportunity, but most of all, he loved bringing people along with him.

Jack married Denise in 1981, and together they had three children: Marissa, Alyce, and Jake. The family enjoyed trips, wonderful memories and many adventures. Marissa married Randy and together they have two sons, Hudson and Camden. Jack was a very proud grandfather to them.

Later in life, Jack married and created a beautiful life with Ronnie in Corona del Mar. He embraced Ronnie’s children and grandchildren as his own. He loved them and their families deeply: Andi and her husband Brian, their children Hadley and Briggs; Bridget and her children Reagan and Bowen; and Meghan.

Jack will be deeply missed, but his legacy will live on through his family and the countless lives he changed.

A Memorial Mass will be held at Our Lady Queen of Angels Catholic Church, 2046 Mar Vista Drive, Newport Beach, California 92663, on August 25, 2026, at 11:00 am.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to First Step House of Orange County, 2015 Charle Street, Costa Mesa, CA 92627, or at https://charlestreet.org/.