JOSEPH ZARRI Obituary

Joseph Zarri Dec. 16, 1916 - Mar. 29, 2012 El Sobrante, CA Joseph Alexander Zarri, loving and devoted husband and father, died peacefully in the company of his family. Joe was born to Giulio & Adele Zarri in San Francisco, CA. He served in the US Army Medic Core during WWII. In 1949 he married Linda Giusti, graduated suma cum laude in philosophy from USF, and opened Zarri's Delicatessen in Richmond. He relocated Zarri's to Albany in 1974, where it grew to occupy a special place in the community's heart. He sold the business and decided to take "an early retirement" at age 91. Joe was a model of Christian charity and continued to be active at his parish, St. Callistus. He'll be greatly missed by his six children, eight grandchildren and multitude of family and friends. He was predeceased by his wife, Linda in Feb. of 2011. A Mass celebrating his life will be held at St. Callistus Catholic Church in El Sobrante on Wed. April 4, at 11 AM. A visitation & Rosary will be held at Smith & Witter in El Sobrante, Tues, April 3 from 6 to 8PM. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to St. Callistus Catholic Church or your favorite charity.

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Published by Contra Costa Times from Mar. 31 to Apr. 2, 2012.

Memories and Condolences
for JOSEPH ZARRI

9 Entries

Karen Walker

April 12, 2012

Mr. Joe Zarri was like a Rock Star to me. I'd heard about Joe Zarri and "Zarri's" all my life growing up; his was THE go-to Italian deli for my Italian mom and her friends. But I only met Mr. Zarri a few years ago at daily Mass, not knowing who he was until a conversation revealed it. He taught me more about how to live a good life from his example than from anything else, even in the short time I actually knew him. He attended Mass every day, and the Rosary and Chaplet of Divine Mercy after daily Mass. He arrived just a little early, never late. He went to the Sacrament of Confession. He respected and honored his wonderful, sweet wife (his "best friend" as he told me one time) and family. He participated as Lector at two parishes—his daily parish and his "second" parish, St David of Wales, which he attended on Sundays for the 11 am Mass with beautiful, reverent liturgy and music. He did whatever he chose to do with vigor and focus. For example, as a lector, even though he was in his 90s, he obviously prepared his readings and delivered them flawlessly in a nice, clear voice. He NEVER uttered an unkind word about anyone. So many times it struck me that Joe Zarri completely anchored his life in Christ. He did not try to be who he wasn't. He just was who he was, in Christ. He loved life, enjoyed it fully, was fully present to his neighbors and loved ones, enjoyed a good sense of humor and was kind to all. As I read the other remembrances of Joe Zarri, it is not surprising that he led by example his entire life. Even when his dear wife passed away, he graciously received others. He led his life on purpose. I am truly sad not to see him at Mass any more, but I am also profoundly grateful that I had the privilege to know him and learn (I hope) from his example.

Debbie Ferreira

April 9, 2012

Mr. Zarri was the most thoughtful, kind and loving man. The original Zarri's in Albany brings fond memories for many generations.
I was one of the fortunate to have worked for the Zarri family and enjoyed every minute of it. Mr. Zarri led by example and was quick to thank everyone! I am one of three generations of our family to work at Zarri's. I just wore my Zarri's girl shirt a week or so ago.
Rest in peace Mr. Zarri. Thoughts and prayers to the Zarri family.

A Mori Costantino

April 7, 2012

In 1956 when my husband was a UC graduate student on the GI Bill, I was responsible to pay all the bills--rent, utilities, food, etc. Our limited income meant plain, carbohydrate meals; except that Mr. Zarri's thoughtfulness and generosity added a bit of luxury to our repasts.

Knowing of our bare-bones income, Mr. Zarri saved all the beginnings and endings of all his salamis, procuittos, and other luxury meats and sold it to me for a pittance. He added much to our lives with this one generous gesture. Through all these years we would recall his kindness and shared his brand of giving with others.
A. Mori Costantino, Iowa City, IA

Joan Stockholm

April 3, 2012

One of the most friendly people I've ever met. My family has been going to Zarri's probably ever since it opened! We live in Rodeo now, but still make the trip in to Albany to order the deli meats. Different atmosphere now, especially since there are no Zarri faces around anymore!

John Banchero

April 2, 2012

My heart goes out to all the members of the Zarri family. Joe was a spiritual inspiration to all as was the legacy of goodness that he and his wife gave their children which spread out into the community. I feel so gifted and fortunate to have known Joe and his family for so many years. Dio vi benedica Giuseppe!

Lisa Polos

April 1, 2012

Joe Zarri was a sweet and gentle man. I have many fond memories of visiting the deli and ordering the best poor boy around. My prayers go out to the Zarri family.

Kurt Heffernon

April 1, 2012

Mr. Zarri and his family were new to Albany in 1974, when they opened up their deli on Solano right around the corner from my girlfriend's house. They were so genuinely good-hearted that pretty soon all the kids made it a regular stop. It didn't hurt that those sandwiches were so fresh and good. Those were good times I will always remember, and Mr. Zarri was a true pillar of the community.

March 31, 2012

Joe and Linda Zarri were Faith in Action for us. Always praying either as lector or as presence before the Blessed Sacrament. They were truly examples of what St. Francis said; "Preach the Gospel at All Times and when necessary use words. Their works are their sermon. Now they can both put in a good word for us. Peace Joe and Linda.

Joyce and Larry Herbert
St. Paul and St. Callistus

Teresa Bolla

March 31, 2012

I worked at Zarri's in high school. Mr. Zarri was a dear man. I have fond memories of his gentle and kind spirit. Blessings to all of the Zarri family

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