Guido Freschet

Born 10/28/31 to Antonio & Guisepina Freschet in San Fior, Veneto, Italy. He was the youngest of five brothers with one younger sister, Clara. He immigrated to the United States with his father when he was 17 years old. He always considered himself fortunate to have his brother Bruno here as he lived with his brother and wife Angela for a bit. His cousins Jenny, Leno and friend Jack helped him adjust to life in America.
In 1958 he married his true love Letizia Louise Vial. Together they raised three children Linda Merslich (Bob Merslich), Richard Freschet & Marc Freschet (Nancy Freschet). They went on to become Nonno & Nonna to Nicole, Danielle, Alicia, Alexandra, Tanya, Antonio, Joseph, Dominic & Noelle. Guido was blessed with six great grandchildren. Luka, Emma, Margaux, Colton, Chase & Brooke. Guido & Letizia enjoyed a richness in their lives that few ever know. A large extended supportive family, fabulous crazy fun friends, travel, dancing and Bocce Ball. Guido was a founding member of the Peninsula Social Club where they spent countless hours dancing and competing in Bocce Ball. Recently the Peninsula Social Club honored Guido for longest tenured member at 73 years of service and membership.
Many a weekend was spent at his cabin at Donner Lake fishing, hiking, swimming, skiing, napping and barbecuing. The doors were always open and welcoming to family, friends and neighbors. A glass of homemade wine and an evening grappa were a mainstay. He thought
traveling was an education and family vacations often were fabulous explorations of new cities and parks with the tent and cooler packed and ready to go. Never thinking of himself he would arise early on Sunday to drive kids and friends to Tahoe for a day of snow skiing with work looming on Monday. His abundant energy was reflected in his many side pursuits. He grew a bountiful garden, made wine and grappa yearly and enjoyed long weekends with family making coppa, sausage and ribs. His was a home where everyone entered via the open side door. If by chance one entered via the front door then mysteriously one must leave via the front door.
When he arrived in San Mateo, he began work at San Mateo Artistic Iron works because the owners spoke Italian so he could communicate with them. His true childhood dream was to own a candy store but ornamental iron became his lifetime career. He eventually became part owner in San Mateo Artistic Iron works which afforded him the opportunity to work 60-80 hour work weeks. The physicality of his work and his work ethic were unparalleled. Recently he was honored by the Iron workers Union as the longest living member at 73 years of membership.
Hard work was a quality he exemplified and emphasized with his children and grandchildren. Although the work was ever present and often grueling there was never a complaint. He loved deeply and was always present with a joke, a radiant smile, and a willingness to help all. His knowledgeable advice and deep wisdom were sought out by many. With a humbleness that is rare, he was a role model to many in family, career, investments and most of all giving. His generosity of spirit and heart were felt by many.
"Que sera, sera, whatever will be will be. The future is not ours to see. Que sera sera. Whatever will be will be."