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Armand Zolezzi Obituary
Armand Mitchell Zolezzi
Resident of San Jose, CA
May 27, 1948-Sept. 13, 2010
Mitch Zolezzi ended his ten-month journey with Pancreatic Cancer on Monday September 13th. He passed away peacefully at home in the loving care of his family.
Mitch was born in San Jose, CA and attended Willow Glen High School (class of 1966). He began his 35+ year career with Del Monte Cannery when he was 18 years old. Over the years he was promoted to Foreman, Shift Supervisor, and finally Assistant Superintendent.
Mitch was the son of Armand Zolezzi and Altamae Zolezzi. He is survived by his mother Altamae Zolezzi, brother Robert Zolezzi, wife Pam Zolezzi, daughters Brenda Devlin and Julie Purinton, and son Brian Zolezzi. He will be missed dearly by his 5 grandchildren, Logan, Ryder, Mason Ty & Hanna.
Private family services were held at the Neptune Society. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to: The Pancreas Cancer Research Fund, Stanford Cancer Center, Development Office, 2700 Sand Hill Road, Menlo Park, CA 94025. 650-234-0651.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Armand Zolezzi
Stefanie Alboff and Lana Landon
October 1, 2010
We feel so blessed to have known you and will cherish the memories of our time spent together. That smile and twinkle in your eyes will always light up our hearts!
Summer Geigle
September 28, 2010
Mitch, you were an amazing man and i will miss you deeply. Thank You for so many memories and laughs. You taught me so much, like how important your daily naps were to you, never to sneak up behind you, and to always close the cap tight on the coffee creamer when i was done, so you would not get a bath in it when you got up to make your coffee. I can still hear your voice telling me! Thank You for all of your love, and for your amazing family. You are forever loved! GOD Bless the Zolezzi family..
Jennifer Maragoni & family
September 27, 2010
It still feels surreal to me that you are gone. I treasure my memories of you and am especially thankful for the joy you brought into Pam's life. I will always remember your kindness and wonderful sense of humor. I am grateful to have known you and will always be proud to call you my uncle. I will miss you!
Joe & Lena Martini
September 27, 2010
Mitch, you will always be in our hearts, and to the Zolezzi, we are truly sorry for your loss. God Bless!!!
Sara Bork
September 27, 2010
We will always miss you and love you. Your memory will live on through your children and grandchildren. May we hold close all the happy memories and times we shared. Love ya!
And someday I will beat you at Yahtzee!
Paul VanGelder
September 27, 2010
Mitch,
A true friend and companion. I have thought often of our adventures and exploits together. You have always been the guy I have looked up to, for your integrity, honesty and insight...as well as your "Lists !"
Take care, you will be sincerely missed and Fondly remembered.
We will see you again, on the other side.
Happy Trails! Paul & Barbara-Ann
Jerry Hoerman
September 25, 2010
We cannot count the memories we have had with you for the last 50 years. Whose name will I call out for tackling drills? Where will I find someone to go fishing, crabbing, hunting and all those other crazy things we have done over the years. You have helped us enjoy our wonderful life together and we will never forget . Jerry and Maureen
Wendy Warner
September 24, 2010
I am saddened to hear of the passing of Mitch, He was my senior prom date and the first love in my life. I always think fondly of him and send my sympathy to his family for their loss.
The last time I saw Mitch was many years ago after one of our high school reunions. I saw what a wonderful man he had become and how much his family meant to him. He still had his signature smile and swagger. I will keep him in my heart
Danielle Lawrence
September 24, 2010
With our deepest sympathy to the Zolezzi family our prayers are with you."MdK Band - Nick, Keller, Tyler, Matt and Parents, Danielle, Dav, Cameron, Laura, Jenny, Greg, Christine, Tim, Mark
John Watt
September 24, 2010
There are no words to describe the loss of such a good man. All I can think about is how lucky the Zolezzi family was to have Mitch for a brother, a father, a son. If I could have picked, Rob would have missed out. In life you do not get to pick your family, but you get to pick your friends. I am so honored that Mitch picked me and thankful I picked him. I am thankful for the times we got to share when going for a ride on the bikes and for the breakfasts we shared and talking about our families. I will miss you my friend.
Gilda Browne
September 23, 2010
With my deepest sympathy to the Zolezzi family, Mitch was a kind and gentle man. He came into Pam!s life at such a perfect time and the love they shared was so very special. I will continue with my prayers especially for you Pam, my dearest friend.
Steve (Son-In-Law)
September 23, 2010
Reading at Service written by Steve Purinton Son-in-Law
I have many fond memories of Mitch. He was always warm and smiling when I arrived. He always outreached a hand for a shake, and I always gave him a hug. I finally broke him of the hand shake thing after a few years. He taught me a lot in general life problems and also taught me some great tricks to impress the crowds. If you haven’t seen the cork in the wine bottle trick, it’s totally Mitch.
A quick story………..Julie and I arrived in San Jose for a visit while I was in High School. I was complaining about what a beater my car was, and he said, “well maybe if you washed it, you would think different.” Mitch took me outside and proceeded to demonstrate how to methodically clean a vehicle. “You start on the roof Steve so the soap run down the car. Otherwise you have to rewash the whole car. Remember go high to low.” He demonstrated the passenger side and I did the drivers side. We got finished and he wanted to take Julie and I out to lunch. We got in his car and he looked at my car, and said” it looks like a different car right.” I was proud of the car. That was until we backed out of the driveway and saw my side of the project. It was spotty to say the least. Mitch looked at my side, shook his head, then chuckled . He looked at me and said, “Nice job Steve.”
I don’t know where I heard it, but I have heard when someone close to you passes they can be called upon as a guardian angel in times of great need. Like when you misplace your keys, wallet, or a pair of shoes for a special occasion. You can ask them, “where did I leave it” and shortly after you will remember exactly where you put it. I have used this assistance before, with a friend who passed. Now…. I know Mitch is the perfectly guardian for the job. However,………. I may now, instead, have a strange urge to establish a pattern, or regular place for things. If I do lose something, I will humbly ask for Mitch’s help. I will picture him shaking his head with a smile, while guiding me in the right direction.
Finally, I will say that Mitch has finally moved on and he is learning the secrets to the universe. He has met his maker, and is more than likely trying to reorganize or make a check off list for future arrivals. I will miss him, and I look forward to seeing him again.
Brenda (Daughter)
September 23, 2010
Reading at service by Daughter Brenda
Dear Dad,
You will be missed by so many and we will always have such amazing memories of you, I will miss that great smile and your knowledge if I had ANY questions or wanted to know anything I could pick up the phone and you always had an answer and if you didn't you would find it for me.
One of my favorite memories of my Dad was I had just moved in with him to finish my Senior year at Del Mar and as most of you know my Dad was a bachelor and lived alone for quite some time, so having a 17 year old girl move in wasn't the easiest thing for him. I had made us dinner and used some of his spices and put them away without paying any attention to where my dad had strategically placed them. So the next day I hear him yell my name and when I walked into the kitchen he was throwing away a fresh batch of rice he had made and poured garlic powder all over instead of onion powder, so at that point I was shown where the spices went and that the onion powder went in front of the garlic powder. We laughed for month's about that because he had to always check the spices be for using them.
Even though it was a difficult transition for both of us it was some of the best ten years of my life. He tought me so much he would say if you want something dont wait for someone to do it for you, take it in your own hands and do it yourself. And that has truly molded who I am today.
I will always love you and never forget you
with love your daughter Brenda
Julie (Daughter)
September 23, 2010
Reading at Service by Julie Purinton
Dear Dad
It is hard for me to imagine life with out you. You have always been someone I could count on for any advice I needed. From helping with job promotions to telling me how long to boil broccoli, I could always count on you to give me the right advice and information. You have been the best Dad I could have asked for. You never raised your voice at me and made it so easy to tell you anything. I smile now thinking about my life with you. You have taught me how to make a great list for anything in life that I do. I can feel your personality within me and always have. I always understood who you were and I knew you understood me. I have lost a Dad, Best Friend, and Papa to my son. I promise to make sure you live within in me and to pass on all you have taught me to my children. I never once questioned my decesion to be with you these last 10 months and enjoyed every moment with you. I hold on to every memory we created and can still here your voice telling me you love me. I love you and will miss you with all my heart. I can only hope that one day my children will feel the same way about me as I feel about you. Thank you for being you. Love, Julie
Bob & Irene Neitro
September 23, 2010
We all at GWRRA Chapter CA2S will miss Mitch very much. His stories, hi-jinks and his legacy will surely live on. He was a remarkable man who brought smiles to everyone he came in contact with. We will always feel honored to have met and spent time with him. He left us way too soon. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family.
Bob and Irene Neitro, Chapter Directors
Virg Midkiff
September 23, 2010
I met Mitch about 14 years ago. A very pleasant man always ready to smile with that sly twinkle in his eye.He loved to be around all of his friends and riding his bike. I will remember Mitch as a man that never spoke ill of anyone and had good things to say about others. I will miss Mitch and the times and laughs we shared.
George Alboff
September 23, 2010
Gonna miss that big smile and friendly demeanor.Now we know nobody who prefers canned potato's to a real russet.
We're sure that you'll be assigned orientation duties in heaven as no one else would be better at it. Only sequoia's get to stay down here forever.
Godspeed, George & Micki
September 23, 2010
How shocked and saddened I was when I read of Mitch's passing this week. My friendship goes way back when our kids were kids! We dated in the 80's and I have wonderful memories of family time and trips together. My prayers are with his wife Pam, children Brian, Brenda and Julie and his grandchildren. My son Josh also sends his thoughts to the family.
Mitch was a great father, son, brother and friend & will be missed daily.
Bonnie Trottier
Hilary Alboff
September 23, 2010
Reading at Mitch's service, written by Pam's sister.
Several years ago, I told you that I thought you were an angel sent from heaven, to be with my sister. As the years have gone on, I've felt it more and more. When she has needed you for support, you were there, you've lead her through some very rough and emotional times.
Because of you, my sister has lived a lifetime in six years. She has done things and seen things that she never would have been able to do. You have brought such joy and happiness into Pam's life. Although none of us knows how long we will spend together I know that Pam will have wonderful memories and joy in her heart when she thinks of you. You are a sweet and kind man, with a good heart.
All of my friends, know about "my sister Pam and Mitch", about your meeting, your wonderful wedding and your life together. It is a relationship worth talking about. Not only have you given Pam wonderful emotional support and love, you have also given her a sense of security for her future. You have provided her with a wonderful stable life and through that a whole new family that I know she cherishes.
Mitch, I know, your courage and positive attitude, these past 10 months, has not only given Pam strength, but you have helped your family and friends who have been there with you.
I love you very much,
Micki (Hil)
Paul Cline
September 23, 2010
I knew Mitch only for a short time as a fellow member of a San Jose motorcycle club. During that short time we became good friends. His jokes and pranks me and his other friends in the group laugh and enjoy his company. Mitch, you will be sorely missed. Teach God about the pleasures of motorcycling.
The Hanley family
September 23, 2010
Words cannot express the sorrow of the loss of Mitch
to his wife Pam, his mother, grown children, and precious grandchildren. Hold tight to the memories for comfort.
Love,
Betty, Nan, Sue, Steve, Tommy, Danny, Leah, Shawna, and Ryan Hanley
Sue Bach
September 23, 2010
Like a comet, blazing 'cross the evening sky
Like a rainbow, fading in the twinkling of an eye
Like the loss of sunlight, on a cloudy afternoon
Mitch, you were gone too soon.
Becky Lydecker
September 22, 2010
Thank you Mitch for all the wonderful gifts you brought to my life. Your charm, compassion and treating me like family. Most of all thank you for your three most amazing children that you brought in to the world. Your family has always meant the world to me. I love you as a father and always will. You will be greatly missed.
Cheryl Clark
September 22, 2010
The sadness will fade. The pain replaced by memories. A smile instead of tears. Mitch Zolezzi leaves his loved ones, with warm thoughts for the coming years.
Bob & Kathy Stephens
September 22, 2010
There is a void of laughter, grins, and happy times without Mitch. I will miss his quick wit, and long funny stories. But most of all, I will miss his friendship. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
Howard Loomis
September 22, 2010
To the Zolezzi Family,
I am sorry for your loss of Mitch. I enjoyed his quick smile and how at ease he was. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Christina Johnson
September 22, 2010
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Remember he will always live in your memories and dreams.
Christa Folkers
September 22, 2010
My thoughts are also with you. I met Mitch once, but feel I know him because I know and love Julie and family so much! Anyone who could raise such an amazing person has left a positive mark in the world, and is an unfortunate loss to all of us. Miss you and wish you good thoughts as you share this time together. Christa Folkers
Brian (Son)
September 22, 2010
Reading at Mitch's service written by Brian Zolezzi (Son)
Dear Dad,
First I want to thank you for being my mentor and giving me the skills in life to succeed. I know I get my work ethics from you and my ability to provide for my family. You always took care of business and never had one complaint about it. You and I had our different life styles but you always accepted me for who I am and loved me unconditionaly. You were my information highway, my friend and my dad. I will always love you.
Brian
Shannon Flinn
September 22, 2010
My thoughts are with all of you during this time.
Desiree Meza
September 22, 2010
I am so sadden to receive this email. I knew Mitch through his wonderful daughter Julie who would not be the woman she is now if it was not for his love. I am sending light and love to all of the his family and praying for all you.
Art Peters
September 22, 2010
I was shocked to learn about Mitch's death today. Mitch and I worked together for several years in the 70's. With his joyous passion for life, I though he was one person who would live forever. His spirit certainly will as it has for me and my memories.
Janiece Prieur
September 21, 2010
I only had the pleasure of meeting Mitch a couple of times. But I got to know how special he was through his mother Alta and his brother Rob. I know he will be dearly missed. My thoughts and prayers are with the entire family.
Patrick Farnsworth
September 21, 2010
Monica and I are saddened by your loss. We didn't have the opportunity to get to know Mitch but we understand how important he was to you and your family. We was a great guy.
Patrick & Monica
Steve Coan
September 21, 2010
Zolezzi family I hope you know that our thoughts and prayers go out to all of you. I had the pleasure of knowing Mitch and knowing the type of guy he was. He certainly will be missed but never forgotten.
Much love,
Steve & Tammy
Robin Mendenhall
September 21, 2010
Many have danced in this dance called Life but not many with your grace. Fly with the angels now Mitch. You will be missed by so many.
ray alcini
September 21, 2010
I never met Mitch and I am sorry for that. He obviously had many friends and family who loved him very much. (Ray & Diana Alcini)
September 21, 2010
Hi Rob,
I'm so sorry about your loss. Hope you got to spend lots of special moments with your brother,
Warm regards,
Patti Boe
Sylvia Wilson
September 21, 2010
Rest in peace Mitch. I'll never forget your smile, and the twinkle in those beautiful, amazing eyes of yours.
September 21, 2010
We wish the wonderful Zolezzi Family all the best at this time of loss. I enjoyed the times I spent with Rob and Mitch and know that their love will keep them connected. The memories of Mitch that his family shares will keep him always in their lives. We will keep Mitch's family in our thoughts and prayers.
Midge Firenzi
September 21, 2010
You will be missed and always loved.
Rob Zolezzi
September 21, 2010
I love you brother. I will miss you daily.
rob zolezzi
September 21, 2010
I love you brother. I will miss you. Hope you find out everything about the Universe!
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