Charles Joseph Pretto

June 3, 1958 - January 15, 2024

Poppy , The Rocket-man & Rotarian for Life!

June 3rd 1958 - January 15th 2024

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Charles Joseph Pretto, a remarkable individual whose life was a testament to knowledge, resilience, and a commitment to service. Charles battled Acute Myeloid Leukemia with remarkable strength after being diagnosed in May 2023. His journey was marked by an eight-month-long fight that included facing the challenges of Graft Versus Host Disease. Despite the adversities, Charles passed away peacefully in the morning of January 15, 2024.

Born in Chicago, Illinois, on June 3rd, 1958, Charles was the eldest child of Anne Jean Alaimo and John Italo Pretto (19332015), and the loving husband of Kimberly Kobey Pretto. His life was one of exceptional accomplishments, from his academic pursuits to his dedicated service to the community.

The Pretto family, led by his father John, a dedicated Radiologist practicing in the medical field for over 50 years in Nevada, and his mother Anne, a compassionate Registered Nurse, instilled in Charles the values of hard work and compassion. The family moved to Las Vegas, Nevada, where Charles was raised alongside his 4 siblings Mary, Robert, John Giovanni & Joseph at the families famous Latigo Home that became a staple for large family get togethers which created life lasting memories. Charles attended Bishop Gorman High School, graduating at the top of his class in 1976, which laid the foundation for his future endeavors.

Charles moved to San Diego and continued his education at the University of San Diego, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Business 1980, a Master’s in Business 1982, and a JD Law Degree 1988. Charles was the president of the Phi Kappa Theta fraternity at USD. Charles was not just a scholar; as he embodied the values of wisdom, compassion, and integrity throughout his life.

In 1983, Charles married the love of his life, Kimberly Kobey Pretto, daughter of the late Monte Kobey, founder of Kobey’s Swap Meet. Their union was blessed with two beautiful children, Anthony David Pretto (born in 1988) and Elizabeth Susan Kerekes (born in 1990). Charles took great pride in his family, and his love and guidance will forever resonate in their hearts.

A man of remarkable business acumen, Charles joined the Kobey family business in 1980, as the Executive Vice President & General Counsel of Kobey’s Swap Meet. Charles played a pivotal role in its success not only at the Swap Meet but especially behind the scenes which left an indelible mark on the local community. Charles led multiple efforts to not only expand the Swap Meet beyond its Sports Arena location but was responsible for negotiating all its terms & contracts with the Sports Arena. Charles Co-founded KAECA Outdoor Entertainment and San Diego Portable ATM alongside his uncle Albert Funk. Under his leadership & hard work, these ventures became reputable providers in the ATM service industry. San Diego Portable ATM, with over 40 ATMS strategically located around San Diego County is now led by his devoted wife Kimberly & son Anthony.

Charles was also known as a man of many hobbies. Charles had been an avid Model Rocket Enthusiast since he was a child. Charles and his son Anthony were members of Tripoli San Diego. Together they attended many rocket launches all over the western United States. Charles also loved photography serving as a Parent Photographer on the Francis Parker Football Team in 2005-2006. Charles and Kimberly loved traveling whether it was to his families hometown in Castelgomberto, Italy or celebrating his 40th wedding anniversary in Park City, Utah. They visited over 20 countries together in their 41 years of marriage.

His commitment to service extended beyond his professional life, as he served in leadership roles including Past President of the National Flea Market Association, Past President of San Diego Rotary Club 33, and Past Rotary District Governor of District 5340. Charles’s impact on the community was immeasurable, with roles such as Former Chair of the Midway-pacific Highway Planning Group, Former Francis Parker School Board Member, and Former San Diego Red Cross Board Member.

Charles is survived by his devoted wife, Kimberly Kobey Pretto, his loving children, Anthony Pretto (wife Mariangela “Cookie” Pretto) and Elizabeth Kerekes (husband Michael Kerekes), his cherished grandchildren Sofia & Isabella Pretto and Charlotte Kerekes, his mother, Anne Pretto, and his siblings – Mary Pretto, Robert Pretto (wife Lea Pretto), John Giovanni Pretto (wife Lee Ann Pretto) and Joseph Pretto.

Charles’s valiant battle against illness was a testament to his indomitable spirit and the love and support of his family.

The Funeral Service will be held on Wednesday, January 24, 2024, at 10:00 am at Cypress View Mausoleum, Mortuary and Crematory.

A celebration of Charles Pretto’s life will follow at 1:00 pm at Liberty Station Conference Center.

In honor of Charles’s commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of other, in lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Rotary International Annual Fund, San Diego Rotary (Club 33) Foundation, and the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.

May Charles rest in peace, and may his memory continue to inspire and comfort those who knew and loved him.