John Buffa

My name is Karen Jones. I am the daughter of Hazel and Bill Young. My parents were Balboa high school friends with John. They were all partying together until they were quite old. When I look at my parent´s photo album I see pictures of the Buffas. My mother´s maiden name was Hansen, she went to Balboa, but my father went to Poly. I can still hear them singing the Balboa song at their dinner parties.

John was my mothers school mate, they remained friends for the rest of my parents life. They had frequent dinner parties, and always sang the balboa song. My mom was Hazel Hansen and married Bill Young, he went to Poly. They were Bill and Hazel Young

I am the daughter of Hazel and Bill Young, John´s classmates of Balboa. Do you remember their frequent get togethers with Ruth and Jerry Stubo, etc. I have a picture of the group in their later years. You can find me on Facebook, or here for a reply

Uncle John was one of the funniest and generous people. He was my father's best friend, all the way back to Balboa High. I loved it when they, and another North Beach old timer, Hank Jackson, got together and told stories about the old days in San Francisco. There just is nobody like them anymore - sad for all of us. My sisters, Mary Consolo and Kristina Memarian, and I will always treasure that we were priviledged to have him as out godfather.

John and Marge Buffa were my parents very dear friends from Balboa Highschool. They had many get togethers throughout the years. My parents were Bill and Hazel Young. I remember the parties well, as you could hear the laughter outside. They all had a wonderful time together. They all sang their Balboa Highschool song at the table. It's sad to think those special people are probably all gone now. Karen Jones

Johnny you were a very good person. You put me in my place when it was appropriate. You gave me a free drink whenever you felt like it. But, most importantly, you were my friend. So long pal, I'll see you on the other side.

I met John when I was very young. My Dad introduced me to him at the Zanzibar. Over the years we would see him at different places and times. Then I didn't see him for more than 15 years. I walked into Negri's with my girlfriend and there was John! I ordered our drinks and when John put the drinks down he said, "So, how's your Dad?" I was floored that he remembered me! There will never be another Johnny Buffa! Rest in peace. John.

John was an all round good guy and the nicest bartender I ever knew. The Zanzibar was my hangout. I met my wife Rosalie (Alexander) Gau there. She was one of his coctail waitresses. We had many memorable experiences there with our friends and buddies. Rest in peace, John.