Sixto Gino Provencio Sr.

Gino attended parochial school as a child and was part of the first class to attend St. Anthony of Padua School. He later graduated from Hoover High School in Fresno, California, where he excelled in football. Although he stood 5 feet 9 inches tall, his height never stopped him from playing center on the team.

After graduation and while attending Fresno City College, Gino competed on the track and field team, throwing the javelin and shot put. He also played baseball for the Omachi All-Stars Team. George Omachi, who was a scout for the Milwaukee Brewers at the time, once told Gino’s father, Sixto, that if Gino could get out of his catching stance quickly enough, he would have signed him. Years of wearing metal knee braces for football had taken a toll on Gino’s knees, but his love for baseball continued. He went on to enjoy playing countless years in men’s leagues.

In his early years, Gino enjoyed woodworking and carpentry. He worked with his cousin Sunny, building and designing cabinets for customers, before joining the United States Air Force in 1975. He began his military career as a jet engine mechanic and worked his way up to the distinguished and well-respected rank of Chief Master Sergeant. After 36 dedicated years of service, he retired from the United States Air Force. Gino loved serving his country.

He is survived by his children: Gino Provencio, his wife Christine, and their children, Austin and Allie; and Michelle Moore, her husband Ryan, and their children, Sally, Kate, and Vincent. He is also survived by their mother, Joann Provencio and sisters Lynnette Salas, Diane Stallings.

Gino is also survived by his wife, Carolyn Provencio, and her children: Donavan Pope, his wife Monica, and Donavan’s children, Taylee, Rylan, and Levi; Jeremy Pope, his wife Heather, and their children, Hunter and McKenzie; and Troy Pope.

Gino always enjoyed spending time outdoors, whether he was fishing with his son Gino and his best friend Donnie or watching his grandchildren play sports. Spending time with his grandchildren was always at the top of his list. He made sure to pack everyone’s favorite snack and drink so he could pass them out after each game or event and share with those on the sidelines. The kids knew Grandpa’s wagon held all the treats.

If you ever invited Gino anywhere, he made sure to “map out” the distance and estimated travel time. This was true for parties, school plays, grandchildren’s sporting events, and even doctor appointments. Arriving 30 to 45 minutes early was not out of character for him. We all knew we would be getting a call before we even arrived letting us know he was already there, what parking spot he was in, what part of the school, and where the bathrooms were located. He could also fix just about anything with a paperclip and maybe a rubberband. Gino was a real-life MacGyver or just simply “a jack of all trades.”

Gino will always be remembered for how loyal, honest, and trustworthy he was. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him, and he will be reunited in heaven with his father, Sixto, and his mother, Mae.

Please join us for a Celebration of Life on Saturday, September 12, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. at the Cosmopolitan Tavern and Italian Grill.