Christian Spirandelli

1938 - 2021

Christian G. Spirandelli
August 7, 1938 - July 11, 2021
Christian Georges Spirandelli passed away peacefully in his 83rd year at home with his loving wife, sister, son, daughter, daughter-in-law, and dedicated caregiver by his side.
Christian led a full and impassioned life, throwing his entire creative self into his many endeavors, whether it was leading a group on a tour through Asia, serving a gourmet meal or renovating his beautiful 1908 San Francisco home. Known for his steely Spirandelli stare, he could lead any boardroom like no one's business, but always a gentleman with composure and respect. To his close friends and family, Chris was as goofy and playful as he was stern.
Born August 7, 1938 in Paris, France to Robert, a Frenchman and Juliana, an American, Chris proudly adopted American Citizenship at birth and moved to the U.S. at 18 years of age. He served in the U.S. Army from 1957 to 1960, and following a few years in the Big Apple, he moved to the Bay Area where he made his home in San Francisco for the next 58 years. He met Diane, the love of his life, in 1968, whom he married the following year, and shared an incredible life for over 50 years.
An avid traveler of the world, Chris was engaged in the travel industry for over 65 years, serving as CEO and President of Bryan International Travel as well as Past President and Executive Director of SKAL International San Francisco. He believed profoundly in the global benefits of cultural exchange and international education, and served as President of the Board for French American International School of San Francisco from 1982 to 1989, where his daughter Danièle attended. Responsible for early and visionary expansion of the facility, he never tired of his can-do, never-give-up attitude and was incredibly proud of the world class institution that it has become.
Amateur photographer, architect, wood-worker, artist, Boy Scout leader, ardent tennis player, and lover of classical music, wine and history, Chris expressed his joie-de-vivre in countless ways. He understood the pure joy that is a good meal and shared his love with his cooking; few will forget his unmatched French onion soup, his annual Christmas bouillabaisse or crêpe suzette. Chris inspired many, perhaps most fervently his children, with both son and son-in-law picking up chef's knives to carry on family culinary traditions.
Christian will be missed immensely. He is survived by his loving wife, Diane; son, Noel; daughter, Danièle; sister, Francine; four grandchildren, and many other important friends and family members. The family would also like to express our special thanks to Chris' caregivers and hospice staff for their kindness and support during this difficult time. A private memorial service in honor of Chris' life will be held at San Francisco Columbarium and Funeral Home on July 24, 2021 at 11:30am. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the San Francisco - Marin Food Bank.