Leo Alphonse Michelini

Our father, grandfather, great-grandfather and best friend passed away peacefully at the age of 96 in his home of 75 years on January 29, 2015. A proud native San Franciscan, born on January 1, 1919, he was the younger of the two children of Adelmo and Ortensia Michelini. He is survived by his wife of 73 years, Rita Michelini, to whom he was devoted and selflessly cared for during her many years of illness. He was a loving and cherished father to Denise Mizzi and Deborah (Richard) Walsh. He was the idolized Nonno of Steve (Nadia) Mizzi, Michael Walsh, Elizabeth (Seth) Duran, and Michele (Steve) Medina. He was the proud great-grandfather of Makayla and Joseph Mizzi, Bradley and Mateo Medina, and Isabella and Chase Duran.

Leo loved growing up in North Beach. He especially liked working at Original Joe’s as a waiter while attending college. After graduation he went to work for the US Navy as an electrical engineer at Hunters Point Shipyard. He worked there for 36 years until his retirement at the age of 62.

Spending time with his family was his greatest joy in life. He enjoyed fishing, rooting on his SF 49ers, and he loved his years working as a gateman at Kezar Stadium and Candlestick Park. He was a past member of the San Francisco Athletic Club, Bayview Old Timers, Portola Seniors, and St. Elizabeth’s Fun Over 50 Club.

The family is sincerely grateful to his caregivers, Eda and Sharon, for the love, care and support they provided. Special thanks also to Lucy Medina for her advice and guidance during this trying time.

Visitation for family and friends will begin at 4 p.m. on Tuesday, February 3rd with a Vigil Service beginning at 7 p.m. at Duggan’s Serra Mortuary, 500 Westlake Ave., Daly City. The Memorial Funeral Mass will begin at 11 a.m. on Friday, February 6th at St. Elizabeth Church, 459 Somerset, corner of Wayland and Somerset Sts., San Francisco. The Committal at Holy Cross Catholic Cemetery will be held privately at the family’s request.