Andrew Asaro

August 12, 1936 – May 17, 2023

Andrew "Andy" Asaro, a remarkable individual whose life was characterized by an abundance of love, cherished relationships, cultural heritage, and unwavering optimism, has left an indelible mark on all who were fortunate enough to know him. His kindness, genuine care for others, and contagious optimism were evident in both his personal and professional endeavors, forever etching his memory in our hearts.

Born in San Diego on August 12, 1936, Andy was the youngest son of Andrew and Katie Asaro, proud Italian immigrants from Sicily. Growing up on India Street, now fondly known as the "Little Italy" district of San Diego Andy accumulated many friends whose reciprocating friendship lasted throughout the years. He enjoyed matriculating through Washington Elementary, Roosevelt Junior High, and San Diego High School with them. Beyond school hours, the group frequently just “hungout” in the neighborhood and one favorite spot for gathering was the Texaco gas station that was located on India and Juniper Streets. One summer, a gas station attendant noticed Andy had his hair in a “crew” cut and exclaimed “he looks like Little Beaver” (a reference to Little Beaver who was Red Ryder’s sidekick in the comic strip Red Ryder), and so, Andy’s neighborhood nickname became “Little Beaver”.

Andy’s school time passions for drama, French, and shop classes were a testament to his diverse interests and vibrant spirit. However, when it came to a career, Andy was initially drawn to the strong family tradition of tuna fishing. He embarked on his first fishing expedition with his father on the Mary Barbara, a 170-ton fishing boat, during the summer of 1952. Despite enduring an unexpectedly lengthy 63-day voyage, he continued to explore his passion by spending the following two summers fishing for albacore on the Maria Joanna, a 12-ton boat. However, after facing particularly harsh weather conditions during these trips, Andy decided to forge a different path.

Andy enrolled in San Diego State College, majored in Banking and Finance, and earned his Bachelor of Science degree in 1959. Upon graduation, Andy was drafted into the Army, where he was presented with a choice: attend Officer Candidate School or serve as an Italian Language Specialist for a NATO command in Naples, Italy. Driven by his love for travel, Andy eagerly accepted the latter opportunity and arrived at his post at Headquarters Allied Forces Southern Europe in Bagnoli, just north of Naples, in May 1961.

Andy thoroughly enjoyed his time in the Army, which allowed him not only to fulfill his duties but also to embark on weekend getaways exploring Rome, Caserta, Monte Casino, Capri, Amalfi, and other enchanting towns. A two-week trip to Mazara de Vallo in Sicily, his parents' hometown, held a special place in his heart. In 1961, he even purchased a brand-new Volkswagen Beetle and embarked on a 30-day leave, driving through France, Switzerland and Italy while staying with relatives along the way, as he playfully referred to it as his "working vacation" in the Army.

Returning to San Diego in 1962, Andy brought his Volkswagen and began a new chapter. He worked with the John Hancock Life Insurance company before obtaining his teaching credential in Business Education in 1973. His passion for education led him to teach within the San Diego School District, including at Memorial Jr. High and O'Farell Jr. High. Andy's dedication extended for an additional 18 years at the San Diego School of Creative and Performing Arts, where he concurrently earned a Master's Degree in Education from the United States International University. In 1998, he retired from teaching, having touched the lives of countless students.

While education played a significant role in Andy's life, he believed that true wonder and fulfillment could be found in the joys of friendship, exploration, and shared experiences. Throughout his life, Andy cultivated a diverse range of interests. He discovered a passion for fencing and sailing during his time in the Army, and once back in San Diego, became a member of the San Diego Fencing Club and maintained friendships with retired fencers through their "Fencing Fossils" group. Sharing his love for sailing, he frequently treated friends and family to delightful excursions on his Catalina 22 and proudly embraced his membership at the Silver Gate Yacht Club.

An aficionado of opera, Andy held San Diego Opera season tickets for an impressive 46 years. Additionally, he actively participated as a supernumerary in 25 operas, delighting in the immersive world of performance. Andy was an avid cyclist and passionate walker, relishing invigorating strolls through Little Italy and along the harbor every day. His engagement extended to various social groups, including get-togethers with fellow educators, Sicilian heritage clubs such as the "Mazara Club," childhood friends from Washington Elementary School known as "The Old Gang," the Sons of Italy, and his unwavering commitment to Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Church's Sunday mass, as well as their cherished annual Fish Fry and Spaghetti Dinner.

Andy's zest for life continued throughout his retirement, as he embarked on numerous cruises and trips to Italy, often accompanied by family and friends, seeking adventure and cherishing moments with loved ones. He embraced his role as a son, brother, uncle, and great uncle, demonstrating unwavering support and compassion for his family. During his mother's illness, he stood as a pillar of strength, providing much needed care and assistance. In the face of his brother's passing, he became a father figure to his nieces and nephews, nurturing and guiding them through life's challenges, and seeing all of his great-nieces and -nephews into adulthood. From attending every family gathering, milestone, and celebration to meticulously preserving our Sicilian heritage, Andy was the steadfast cog that maintained family connections and passed down cherished traditions.

Living on India Street in the heart of San Diego's "Little Italy" for 86 years (excluding his time in the Army), Andy became a living legend, an embodiment of the neighborhood's rich history and its people. He generously shared his knowledge and memories with organizations such as Convivio and the Little Italy Association, offering invaluable interviews and photographs that captured the essence of the neighborhood's transformation. Until his final days, Andy reveled in residing on India Street, finding great joy in conversing with old friends who frequented the Mona Lisa delicatessen or visited during the vibrant Italian festivals that adorned the street. He took immense pride in his 78-year-old home that represented the enduring spirit of Little Italy, and cherished the lifelong friendships enabled by it.

Known affectionately as Andy to his friends and Unc & Grunc to his family, Andrew Asaro will forever be treasured and deeply missed by the countless lives he touched. He leaves behind a legacy of warmth, unwavering spirit, kindness, and a profound love for family, friends, community, and heritage.

Andy is survived by his nephew Frank Jr., niece Lori (Adam Jastrzebski), and nephews Guy (Chelsea), Michael (Laurie), and fondly remembered as Grunc by his grandnephews and grandnieces; Jamie Warburton, Anthony, Sean (Jenna), Jennifer, Joseph, Nicholas, Katherine, Grace and step grandniece Kathy (Jastrzebski) and step grandnephew Michael (Jastrzebski). He was preceded in death by his parents, Andrew A. Asaro and Katie Asaro, and his brother Frank Leo Asaro (Sharon). We will forever cherish the memories of his smiling face, unwavering spirit, and his genuine care for family, friends, neighborhood, and heritage.

In our hearts, Andy's legacy lives on, reminding us to embrace life with love, joy, and a deep appreciation for the connections we forge along the way.

Family and friends are invited to attend services in Andrew’s honor.

Rosary & Viewing: Monday, May 29, 2023, 4:00-8:00 pm, La Jolla Chapel, 4710 Cass St., San Diego, CA 92109., (858) 488-5553. Mass: Tuesday May 30, 2023, 9:00 am., Our Lady of The Rosary Catholic Church, 1629 Columbia St., San Diego, CA 92101, (619) 234-4820. Internment: Tuesday, May 30, 2023, 11:00 am., Holy Cross Cemetery and Mausoleum, 4470 Hilltop Dr., San Diego, CA 92102, (619) 264-3127. Celebration/Reception: Tuesday, May 30, 2023, 12:30 – 3:00 pm., (immediately following internment), The Godfather Restaurant, 7878 Clairemont Mesa Blvd., San Diego, CA 92111, (858) 560-1747

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to “Convivio” a non-profit society helping to maintain cultural heritage in Little Italy. Online via https://givebutter.com/contribute, or call (888) 862-4825 to learn more.