Charles Robert Garnin

Charles Robert Garnin April 18, 1915 - August 27, 2006 Charles Robert Garnin, 91, of Burlingame, died on Sunday, August 27, at his home at Mills Estate Villa in Burlingame. Born and raised in Oakland, Mr. Garnin was a descendant of Swiss immigrants on his father's side and second generation Swiss-American farmers of the Antioch area on his mother's side. He was one of two children, surviving his late brother Philip who passed away in the mid 1960s. He attended parochial schools all his life, including St. Mary's High School in Berkeley, and St. Mary's College in Moraga where he earned his bachelor of science degree in economics. Mr. Garnin was a World War II veteran of the U.S. Navy, having been trained in Port Directors School for operations in the Western Sea Frontier. He served as an officer, having attained the rank of lieutenant (senior grade). While still on active duty he married his wife Patricia in 1945, and settled in the Peninsula to raise three sons, Stephen, Philip and Christopher. Mr. Garnin then pursued a business and sales career that included automotive electrical components and building materials (ready-mix cement aggregates) until his retirement at age 71. He was devoted to his wife Pat, as her husband and escort, through all of their social activities including business, civic, and charitable community events. He was a great father, husband and steady provider for his family. He was also an accomplished pianist, an athlete of speed, and an inspired fan of the Notre Dame collegiate football team. He will be missed by not only family, but many local and loyal friends. Of immediate family, he is survived by his three sons and daughters-in-law, Stephen Garnin of Molokai, Hawaii, Philip and Eileen Garnin of Danville and Christopher and Lorraine Garnin of Sonora. Additionally, Mr. Garnin leaves behind six grandchildren: Chancie, Nicole, Matthew, John, Lisa and Daniel; and two great-grandchildren, Ava and Ruby. He also leaves numerous cousins including JoAnne Ruckstuhl; and nieces and nephew, Colleen, Robin and Mark Fanning. Private services will be held. At Mr. Garnin's request, any remembrances are encouraged to be made to Hospice of San Mateo County.