Jospehine E. Giannini

Sept. 20, 1922 - Sept. 9, 2016

Josephine “Jo” Giannini was born in Salinas, California September 20, 1922, and left unexpectedly and peacefully September 9, 2016. Grandma moved to San Francisco in 1940 and spent the remainder of her life in “The City” that she loved, surrounded by many friends and family. She attended Franklin Hospital Nursing School and graduated in 1943. Her career as a nurse was one of her most proud accomplishments. Grandma met and married Jimmy Veltri, who preceded her in death (1954) with whom she had two children Joseph “Joe” and Norma Jean who were her pride and greatest joys. She later married Valentino (Val) Giannini who also preceded her in death (1981).

Grandma was a woman who lived life to the fullest and never let a moment pass her by. Some of her proudest days were those working for The American Can Company as the plant nurse. After retiring in 1978, she traveled extensively, the highlights of her travels were a trip to Hawaii with her daughterin-law and granddaughter, visiting the Soviet Union, riding a camel in Egypt, as well as many trips to her beloved Italy and Switzerland. Grandma had an active social life and was involved in a number of organizations that were very dear to her including the Native Sons of California, the Swiss Athletic Club luncheons and activities, was an active member of St. Vincent DePaul Church and took full advantage of their senior trips. Grandma especially enjoyed meeting with the “Coffee Group” 2 or 3 times a week for their wide ranging discussions. Grandma was a voracious reader who was well known at the Marina Branch library and took great pleasure in watching the 49ers and Giants and would always talk sports with anyone who would listen.

She is survived by her sister Emily, her children Norma and Joe, daughterin-law Liz, her grandchildren Nicole “Nikki” (Josh) Stanchfield and Charles “Chuck” Veltri, numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins, along with many friends. Grandma is also survived by her very dear friend and companion of many years George DeVincenzi.

In honor of her wishes in lieu of funeral services, a celebration of her life with friends and family will take place at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests a donation to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.