Giovanni Rotondi

Born on March 3, 1939, in Mola di Bari, Italy, Giovanni grew up in a large family of eight children. His early experiences helping his family on the farm helped shape the strong work ethic that remained with him throughout his life.

As a young man, Giovanni pursued his education before serving in the Italian Navy and the Merchant Marines. His service gave him the opportunity to travel and see parts of the world beyond the small Italian town where he had grown up.

Giovanni eventually moved to the United States, where he built a life and raised a family. He married Barbara (Powell) in May 1969 in Chicago, Illinois. In 1977, they moved to California, first settling in Torrance before moving to Vista in 1980.

Giovanni spent his entire career in the printing business, building his working life around a trade that would remain a constant throughout his adult years.

Giovanni’s Italian heritage remained an important part of his identity. Throughout his life, he carried with him many of the traditions, foods, and customs of his childhood.

He enjoyed good food and wine, gardening, Italian classical music, and opera.

In his later years, Giovanni pursued his passion for art, teaching himself to paint and sculpt. His varied and eclectic artwork reflected his curiosity and willingness to explore new interests. He continued creating and working with his hands well into retirement.

Giovanni is survived by his son, Paul, and his wife, Katherine; his daughter, Catherine, and her husband, David; and his grandsons, Zack and John, and their spouses, Tatiana and Justin. He was preceded in death by his wife of 55 years, Barbara, as well as his brother and two sisters.

Giovanni will be remembered by his family for his distinctive personality, his love of Italian traditions, his creativity, and the many stories and memories he leaves behind.