Jenny Pasqua Zirelli

Oct. 18, 1929 - Jan. 27, 2021 Resident of San Mateo

Jenny Zirelli (also lovingly called Jen, Mama Jen, Nona Jen) passed away on January 27th, 2021 at the age of 91. She is now once again together with her beloved husband John.

Jenny was born in Weed California on October 18, 1929. At the age 1, she returned back to Crespano Del Grappa Italy with her parents Giovanni and Magdelena and siblings Louie, Louisa, Mary and Paul. She returned to the United States at the age of 18 following the end of World War II (why she never lost her thick accent remains a mystery), while her parents and sister Mary remained in Italy. Jenny was an expert and exquisite seamstress and worked for Joanne Fabrics for more than 20 years. Nothing made her happier when customers would come into the store and asking for her by name to help them. One of her proudest moments as a seamstress was making all the new altar server surplices at her beloved St. Matthew Catholic Church in San Mateo where she attended Mass daily for over 50 years. Jenny was also known for her cooking skills. Over the decades, she had weekly requests for her homemade pizzas and eggplant parmesan that were enjoyed by neighborhood schools, friends and local public organizations. If her orchids were in bloom, she often would send a bouquet along with her pizzas.

Jenny is survived by daughters Diane and Mary Ann, son John and granddaughter Danielle along with son-in-laws Rick and Tim and daughter-in-law Michele. Jenny cherished her poodle Annie who was always by her side. A special thanks to Jenny’s caregivers, Helen and Kalolaine for their loving care to her.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date to honor the 91 years of Jenny.

For those wishing to make a donation in memory of Jenny, please send to St. Matthew Catholic Church at 1 Notre Dame Ave, San Mateo, CA 94402.