DONALD EMIL GINI

October 12, 1935 – August 23, 2017

Donald Emil Gini, age 81, of Stockton, CA, passed away peacefully on August 23, 2017 surrounded by loved ones. He was sick for some time, battling cancers, infections and pneumonia. Dano was the birth name given to him on October 12, 1935 in Stockton, CA, born to Angelo and Angelina Gini (Del Corso). He was the older brother to Gerald and Ernest. Don was the eldest of 18 cousins in the Del Corso Famiglia.

Don grew up in Stockton, graduating from St. Mary’s High (‘53). In 1955 he met and serenaded the love of his life, Barbara (Gilbeau), at Lodi Lake. They married in 1956 at St. Anne’s in Lodi and the love was strong for more than 62 years. He was the original owner of Cal-Pine Barber Shop, cutting hair for more than 55 years.

He was a long-time member of the Italian Athletic Club and a huge fan of the monthly members only dinners. In the early years he enjoyed going to Santa Cruz, telling jokes, bowling, camping, boating, fishing, cooking, sporting events, rental properties and wine. Some of the clubs he was associated with were Stockton Jaycees, Moose Lodge, Elks Lodge, Lodi Good Sam Club, Model A Club and Knights of Columbus. Later in life he liked to spend time cooking, work around the house, RVing, cruises, fantasy football/baseball and family get togethers.

Don is survived by his wife, Barbara Gini; his three children, Ken Gini, Mary Anne Westerlund and Jeff (Lora) Gini; his eight grandchildren, Eric Officer, Michael Officer, Sarah Officer, Anthony Gini, Ryan Gini, Kelsey Gini, Donovan Gini and Haylee Hawley; his nine greatgrandchildren, Austin, Brooke, Kevin, Zoey, Jazmine, Lauren, Alyssa, Emma and Dominic.

There will be visitation at Casa Bonita Funeral Home, 2500 Cemetery Lane, Stockton, CA on Tuesday, August 29, 2017 from 2:00 p.m. to the time of the Vigil Service which will be held at 6:00 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Church of the Presentation, 1515 W. Benjamin Holt Dr. in Stockton on Wednesday, August 30 at 10:00 a.m. followed by burial at Cherokee Memorial Park in Lodi, CA. Memorial contributions in Don’s memory may be made to the American Cancer Society, San Joaquin Calaveras County, 207 E. Alpine Ave., Stockton, CA 95204 or Spiritual Bouquets.

Please sign the guest book at www.lodinews.com/ guestbook.