Marvin Henry Pestoni

1929 - 2025

Marvin Henry Pestoni, a third-generation Napa Valley native, passed away peacefully on May 30, 2025, at his home in Calistoga, surrounded by his family and devoted caregiver, Millie. Marvin was 95.

Born on December 6, 1929, at St. Helena Hospital, Marvin was the son of Henry Pestoni and Lena Domingos Pestoni. He grew up on the family ranch on Whitehall Lane. Marvin's heritage came from two pioneering winemaking families; the Pestoni family, originally from Monte Carasso, Switzerland, and the Domingos family, from St. George Island in the Azores.

In 1945, Marvin met the love of his life, Charlene Petty grew, and they married in 1947. Marvin and Charlene enjoyed countless adventures and lived life to the fullest during their 77 incredible years together. Their travels included many cruises and vacations to the Caribbean, Hawaii, and Europe. Later, they enjoyed traveling the country in their motorhome. When travel finally became more challenging, they found joy in spending time at their home in Calistoga and weekends at their lake home on Jago Bay. Throughout the years, Marvin and Charlene made cherished memories with family and friends, always making the most of each moment and never taking themselves too seriously.

Between the 1940s and the 1960s, Marvin and his family were engaged in farm life, raising chickens, cattle, and hogs, and selling eggs to restaurants and individuals. Eventually, they began collecting waste vegetables and other organic materials. In 1965, Marvin, along with his brother Bob Pestoni and their spouses, Charlene, and Sylvia, started Upper Valley Disposal Service, later expanding the company to include the Clover Flat Resource Recovery Park, South Lake Refuse & Recycling, Quackenbush Compost, and a partnership with Napa Recycling & Waste Services. In 1994, the Pestoni family acquired Rutherford Grove Winery and Vineyards, almost a century after Marvin's grandfather, Albino Pestoni, and his wife, Maria Madonna, planted their first vineyard and built their winery in St. Helena.

Marvin and Charlene had two daughters, Linda and Suzi. Marvin and Charlene's generosity and kindness to their family will never be forgotten. Their love and support throughout the years will always hold a special place in all our hearts.

Marvin was never without a smile. His positive and friendly demeanor earned him many lifelong friendships, both near and far. He was actively involved in the Native Sons of the Golden West, the Calistoga Lions Club, the Napa County Fair Association.

Marvin is preceded in death by his wife, Charlene Pestoni, and is survived by daughters Linda Pestoni Sereni and Suzi Pestoni; grandchildren Dean Sereni, Brian Sereni, James Fitzgerald, and Nic Fitzgerald; and great-granddaughter Siena Sereni.

The family is forever grateful for the excellent care and love provided by Millie. Millie ensured their later years were as comfortable as possible and gave the same love to Marvin and Charlene that they shared with so many. In addition to Millie, we are thankful for the care provided by Dr. Jeanette Williams and the wonderful nursing staff at Providence Hospice Napa Valley.

A private family funeral will take place in St. Helena, CA, and a celebration of life will be held at a later date for Marvin and Charlene. In lieu of flowers, please make donations in Marvin's memory to Providence Napa Valley Hospice. Marvin Pestoni