Vincenzo Giarratano

Vincenzo Giarratano born May 2, 1922 in Brooklyn, New York. Died February 8, 2013 in San Diego, CA. He is survived by three children, Terina, Matt, and Frank, six grandchildren and four great grandchildren.

At the tender age of six months, Vincenzo and his parents moved back to Mazara del Vallo, Sicily to reunite with their Sicilian roots. Growing up as a Sicilian agriculturalist, Vincenzo spent much of his time outdoors working the fields. Through his love of the farm he would meet the love of his life, Mattia Siragusa- sister of his friend and co-worker Batista Siragusa. They were married and their first child, Terina, was born shortly thereafter in Sicily.

Once married, it was time for Vincenzo to find the American dream in hopes of supporting his new family. In 1954 Vincenzo immigrated to San Diego where he reunited with his two sisters Antonina and Katie, temporarily leaving his wife and daughter in Sicily. Searching for employment, Vincenzo tried his hand at commercial fishing, then the restaurant business, but they didn’t fulfill his heart and passion. He soon realized he would find happiness and support his family doing what he loved- working with plants. He began his business as a gardener and it wasn’t long before he became well respected in the San Diego community for his green thumb.

Vincenzo soon sent for his wife and daughter and their beautiful family soon expanded in their North Park home where Matt and Frank were born.

When not working Vincenzo was an avid wine maker and vegetable grower. His kitchen table was always plentifully supplied with homemade wine and freshly picked fruits and vegetables. In his later years he received much joy from seeing his children and grandchildren on Sunday lunch outings. Vincenzo will be greatly missed by his family

Visitation will be Wednesday February 13, 2013 5-8pm at Merkley-Mitchell Mortuary 3655 Fifth Ave San Diego, California .

Rosary and mass will take place Thursday February 14, 2013 at Our Lady of The Rosary Church corner of State & Date in Little Italy. Burial immediately following at Holy Cross Catholic Cemetery 4470 Hilltop Dr. San Diego, California