Francesco passed away with his wife, son, and his close friend Sandra, at his side on October 22, 2021, at the age of 87. He was born in Borgo Val di Taro, Italy and later moved to San Francisco’s North Beach (Little Italy) community.
Francesco was an only child to Angelo and Gemma Spagnoli. During high school he found his passion for stage acting, going on to perform in various comedies. He enjoyed playing various instruments including the harmonica, guitar, accordion, and the bass. After the military, he continued to work at his family’s gelateria (ice cream shop) where he eventually met his beautiful loving wife, Maria. Francesco and Maria were married in January 1959, and soon thereafter had one son, Angelo.
Francesco and his family came to America and arrived in San Francisco in December of 1962. He became co-owner of the iconic Caesar’s Restaurant and was also owner of the Bohemian Cigar Store in North Beach. He and his family were a staple in the North Beach community and were regular members of Sts. Peter and Paul Church.
Over the years, the family split their time between their home in San Francisco and Borgo Taro. During his time in Italy, he was awarded the distinguished honor of Cavaliere (Knight) in recognition of service to the Italian Republic. Later, Francesco and Maria also brought their grandchildren, Frankie and Sophia, to Italy, enabling them to share many wonderful experiences in this beautiful country where their grandparents were born and raised.
Francesco’s favorite activities after his early retirement were spending time with his beloved grandchildren, attending dinners (always enjoying fried calamari & San Pellegrino) with close friends, and traveling with his wife. He always had a smile, a joke, a magic trick, and delightful stories to share with everyone he engaged with.
Francesco is survived by his wife Maria, son Angelo, Angelo’s partner Krista, grandchildren Sophia & Francesco “Frankie”, goddaughter Chiara, her husband Henry and children Isabella & Christian.
Family and friends are invited to attend a memorial service on Monday, November 8, 2021, at 10:00a.m. for the viewing and 10:30a.m. for the mass. at Sts. Peter and Paul Church, 660 Filbert Street., San Francisco, CA 94133.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Cancer Society.
SHARE OBITUARY
v.1.8.18