Mario T. Balestrieri

Mario T. Balestrieri Mario T. Balestrieri passed away peacefully May 1, 2018 at age 89. He spent his entire professional career working in, and for, his community. Starting in 1954, he worked for the Contra Costa County Public Works Department. In 1963 he moved his family to Novato in Marin County, taking a position as Equipment Superintendent in the Marin County Public Works Department. Within three years he was appointed Acting Assistant Public Works Director, and in August 1966 he became the Director of the County Public Works Department. Mario continued in that role until his retirement in March 1989. During that time, he led and supported many important county projects. He also continued his work as consultant to the County for critical projects, such as 1990's clean up of Richardson Bay. Mario was a volunteer for Novato Fire Protection District. In December 1980 he was appointed to an open Board position in December 1980 and subsequently elected for three additional terms. His service on a Novato School District committee was also important to him as a parent. He was an active member of Our Lady of Loretto Church in Novato. He also spent a number of years participating in and supporting the multi denominational Cursillo Christian Community in Marin County. His wife Donna L. Balestrieri, of 69 years, and their seven children, Linda, Christine, Tom, Paul, Michelle, Michael and Peter, survive Mario. His son John predeceased him in 2016. A Mass will be held at Our Lady of Loretto, on Saturday, May 12 at 11:00AM, immediately followed by a reception at the church hall.