ERMA VIVIANO GIANELLI

Erma Viviano Gianelli passed on March 29, 2018, Holy Thursday, in Lodi, California at the age of 95.

She was born on October 1, 1922 in Stockton to immigrant parents from Italy, Maria Boitano and Giacomo Viviano. Erma was the youngest of four children and often said she was spoiled greatly by her three older brothers, August, Joseph and Ernest Viviano. As a child she helped roll out dough for her mother’s homemade ravioli served at their Westside Inn and during the depression she delivered small orders from her Father’s grocery store. As a teenager she worked as the Head Usherette at the Fox Theater. Erma attended Elementary School at Jefferson School and graduated from Stockton High School.

She met Chet Gianelli at Chet’s Restaurant in 1944 and said she knew he was The One the minute she met him. They wed the next year at St. Mary’s Church and were married for 60 years. Erma worked in accounting for many years until her retirement. Her 44 years as an Auxiliary volunteer at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Stockton brought her great joy. Erma and Chet traveled extensively throughout the United States and Europe. While in Italy, Erma served as the unofficial translator for their tour group as she was bilingual and never forgot the Italian that she learned from her parents. She was known for her delicious biscotti cookies and beautiful needlework. Erma knitted and crocheted countless throws and blankets for family, friends and charitable organizations. She was an accomplished bridge player and also played a mean game of pool. Erma lived life to the fullest and was devoted to her family.

She is survived by her son, Jerry ( Rosemary ) and grandsons Brian and Gabe. She was predeceased by her parents, brothers, husband, Chet Gianelli and infant daughter, Cheryl Diane. The family would like to thank her many doctors, nurses and caregivers who helped her to live a long and prosperous life.

Those wishing to contribute to a memorial for Erma are asked to give flowers to people they love or food to someone who needs it. All funeral services are private.

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