Patrick Giannetto

San Diego - Dr. Patrick William Giannetto passed at his home in San Diego, CA. He was 60.

9/23/65 - 3/8/26

He is survived by a sister, Kathleen (Giannetto) Perrotta of Red Bank NJ, and 2 brothers: Joseph Giannetto of Binghamton, NY and Michael Giannetto of Lafayette, NY. As well as seven nieces and nephews.

He is predeceased by his parents, Joseph and Anne Giannetto of Hillcrest, NY.

Pat grew up in Vestal and in high school he won five varsity letters, three in wrestling and two in lacrosse. He was inducted into the Vestal Hall of Fame in 2006, voted by his peers. His plaque is on display at Vestal Sr. High School.

Since 1990 Dr. Patrick Giannetto was a dedicated firefighter, fire engineer, and Captain with the Del Mar California Fire Department and was president of the International Association of Firefighters, Local 4163. He was proud to be a member of the FEMA Urban Search and Rescue Team which was sent to Ground Zero after the collapse of the twin towers and then fought the devastating wildfires of 2003 in California. But his most difficult and heart-rending task as a member of FEMA was what he faced in New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina devastated the area. He made the first live save by a member of the task force on day two of the rescue effort. Later their unit was sent to Texas when it was hit by Hurricane Rita.

For a number of years he worked as a senior personnel research psychologist with the county of San Diego and taught at Alliant International University. Pat received his Ph.D. and M.A. in industrial/organizational psychology from the California School of Professional Psychology and his B.A. in psychology from the University of Albany. He made over 20 presentations and publications in professional journals related to industrial/organizational psychology. Pat was honored for Excellence in Public Service in Cambridge Who's Who.

While at SUNY Albany, he was honored in Who's Who in American Universities and Colleges. He was a member of the wrestling team and was ranked fourth in the United States in 1985 as a member of the Espoir World Cup Team. He also won a bronze medal at the New York State championships that same year.

He was a drummer with the San Diego Fire Department Bagpipe and Drum Band which was created so deceased members could be buried with the respect and dignity they deserve. At one time he was also the curator of the fire department's museum and later an executive member of the organization.

Pat was intensely loyal to his family, friends, and pets. He also had a terrific memory that he did not brag about. All who remember him will say he was a kind person and a positive influence in their lives.

Services will take place in June 2026, both in San Diego and in the Binghamton area.

Persons wishing to donate in honor of Pat may do so to 2 of his favorite charities:

The Emerald Society of San Diego Firefighters: https://www.sdffemeraldsociety.org/donate/

ASPCA of San Diego: https://secure.sdhumane.org/site/Donation2?mfc_pref=T&26754.donation=form1&df_id=26754