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John Zandonella Obituary

John A. Zandonella May 23, 1929 - June 2, 2008 Resident of Concord John was born in Dunsmuir, CA, raised in Placerville, and resided in Concord for the majority of his life. John was a businessman and a family man. He owned and operated Zandonella Reporting Service, ZAP Printing, and Zandonella's Italian Restaurant. John exemplified the values of hard work and generosity. Not only was John dedicated to his businesses and family, he was an active member of numerous local and national organizations and devoted to the Court Reporters Association and the legal community. When John was not in the office, you could find him playing bocce, caring for many of his numerous animals, capturing beauty through the lens of a camera, or maintaining his pristine garden, all while professionally dressed in slacks and dress shoes. John was preceded in death by the recent passing of his beloved wife and business partner, Fosca (Del Cesta) of 56 years. John's legacy is continued through his four children, Louie (Jennifer), Michael (Lynn), Patty Garaventa (Sil), and Anna Bob (Tracy); 10 grandchildren, Anthony, Louie, Stefanie, Angela, Michael, John, Sil, Robert, Jennifer and Nicolas; and four great-grandchildren. He is survived by his aunt, Adelina Hackett; brother, Reno (Felice); sisters, Teresa Klare (Bill), Rose Zandonella, and Jean Sales and numerous nieces and nephews. Please join us in the celebration of John's life! Visitation on Monday, June 9, 2008, commencing at 4pm with Vigil at 7pm; Funeral Liturgy on Tuesday, June 10, 2008, 6pm, ALL at St. Agnes Church, 3966 Chestnut Ave., Concord 94519. The family requests that donations be made to a scholarship fund in memory of Fosca & John Zandonella at the following schools: St. Agnes School, 3886 Chestnut Ave., Concord, CA 94519; Carondelet High School, 1133 Winton Dr., Concord, CA 94518; or De La Salle High School, 1130 Winton Dr., Concord, CA 94518. Ouimet Bros. Chapel 925-682-4242

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Published by San Francisco Chronicle from Jun. 6 to Jun. 8, 2008.

Memories and Condolences
for John Zandonella

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Delcie Rottmann

August 17, 2008

Dearest Zandonella Family,

I was very saddened to hear about John's passing. A friend from Pittsburg told me and I just couldn't belive he was gone. Then as I was looking up his obituary I found that Fosca was gone too! I was just devastated. I truly enjoyed working at the restaurant. I was actually planning to return to Pittsburg to have my "50th" Birthday bash there at the restaurant. Then I was told he sold the restaurant. I feel very fortunate to have met two very wonderful people. Having worked with many of his family was a great reflection of a hard working family man who loved his family. He made me feel like part of his family. God bless all of you at this very dificult time, it's good to know he is in a better place and with Fosca.

July 1, 2008

My condolences to the Zandonella Family. This is "ReyHey" as Yolanda L. named me way back when. Played on the Elks softball team for a bit.

All of the best.

-Richard

Sandy Hoyer

June 12, 2008

Dear Louie, Michael, Patty, Anna and Families,
I feel like a chapter has just closed in the finest book I've ever read. With that closing we've lost two of my very favorite characters: John and Fosca. Lucky for me they were real people! Thank you all for the love, friendship, hard work, and fun I always enjoyed: I was a stranger in your midst but your mom and dad took me in and their generous arms and hearts brought me into the fold of your wonderful family. I loved them so, and I love all of you.

Please accept my most sincere sympathy and condolences for the loss of your dad,
Sandy (Terry) Hoyer

Chere and Bill Deuel

June 11, 2008

Dear Anna, Patty, Lou, Mike, and Families, and Auntie:
We were saddened to learn of John's passing, and so soon after dear Fosca. Our deepest condolences on the loss of your father, grandfather, great-grandfather, nephew. If two people were meant to be together, it would be Fosca and John. They lived together, worked together, and loved together. They are with each other again, as it was meant to be. They were two of the most generous and kind people we've had the pleasure of knowing, and boy, could they throw a party! They raised a wonderful family and leave a trove of memories. We hope your memories will ease you through this difficult time.

Dominick Guadagni

June 10, 2008

To the Zandonella Family;
I am John's great-nephew. I will remember him for always having a smile on his face, every time you looked at him. My thoughts and prayers go out to the family, when I think about him. He will be truly missed. I will miss going by his house and eating candy that he always had in a little bowl. One thing I will also miss is him asking me about how I was doing in school, and if I was doing good. I will miss my great-uncle John. Love, Dominick Guadagni

Dottie Malone

June 10, 2008

Dear John,
Through this letter to you, I would like to thank your children for sharing you and Fosca with all of us in the court reporting profession and for what you have added to all of our lives in general.

You have always been a leader, courageous and ceaseless in your efforts to make lives better and push forward with beneficial changes. Your knowledge of the political process is only one way in which you championed our causes.

One of my fondest memories of you has nothing to do with court reporting, but everything to do with your loving, generous spirit. I remember Bob and Yvonne Ayres' anniversary party at your restaurant. Our new son, Nick -- adopted at age six -- came with us to the party. You grabbed him by the hand and said "Grandpa John will take you on a tour." You proceeded to take him through the freezer, into all areas of the kitchen and "outback." His grandfather had just passed away. Thank you, Dear Man. Nicky is now graduating from high school this week, and he still remembers you.

I will never forget you, and I know you are teaching others as I write this. What lessons you have taught all of us. My heart aches for your family.

Love and God Bless you.

Patricia Curtin

June 10, 2008

To the children, grandchildren and spouses of John's family-

I met John about 20 years ago when I returned to this County from school. He was so kind and remarkable and he always had a smile. I worked with him last (he prepared a transcript for me) a little over a year ago and he was still smiling. He was a great man and I will remember him fondly.

God Bless All of You.

Brenda Andrade

June 10, 2008

John was a very pleasant man, I remember he actually remembered where he knew me from when he greated me in his restaurant. A great man. I know his family will have many happy and fond memories.

steve weir

June 10, 2008

With deepest sympathies to the Zandonella family and friends, we already miss the dynamic team of Fosca and John. What a couple!

Don Krenzer

June 9, 2008

Zandonella Family,

I want you all to know the sadness I am feeling for you all at this time. I have been around your family now for 15 years and would always love to hear John coming to the back room to give me a hard time while working on one of your machines. John was one of the hardest working men I have ever met and had the Biggest heart. I am proud to say I knew him. I know how much he loved his family and friends and I am honored to say He made feel like I belonged in those groups. I know he by the side of Mrs. Zandonella now , who he loved so much and for that I am happy. Thank You John for always keeping me honest. Rest in Peace my Friend.

chris tine ventimiglio

June 9, 2008

The world will be less bright and a sadder place now that both of your parents are gone. I never met two more generous people in my like

Denise Doucette

June 9, 2008

Dear Zandonella Family,
The court reportng profession has lost a giant with the passing of John Zandonella. Both John and Fosca were wonderful to me throughout my career, stretching back to the 1970s. Although our reporting businesses were close enough geographically to be considered competitors, I always viewed John and Fosca as valued mentors and trusted associates. I enjoyed being able to speak candidly with both John and Fosca about court reporting issues and took comfort in knowing we held common beliefs, philosophies, and ethics. John was a confident leader and a man of strong morals and clear vision. His leadership, his encouragement, and his voice will he sorely missed. All who have known and worked with John have been enriched by the experience. I extend my sincere condolences to the entire Zandonella family.

Craig & Jill Hodges

June 8, 2008

Dearest Louie, Patty, Mike, Anna and Families,
We send our deepest sympathy and prayers of comfort to you all
during this heartbreaking time of losing your precious dad, so soon after you lost your dear mother.
Your parents were the most wonderful couple, and we are so thankful that we were fortunate enough to work for them and to always stay connected throughout the years.
We are so sorry we won't be able to attend the service, but we'll be sending you our caring thoughts and love.
Jill & Craig

Patricia Paulson

June 8, 2008

To the Zandonella family my condolences.

My father, the late Vernon Paulson knew John and his wife and they talked about him possibily managing the court reporting business when my dad decided to retire. Sadly, this didn't happen as dad passed away in '81. Another memory I have is dad saying that I should get a job at the court reporting service after my high school graduation.

Now they are all together up there watching over us.

David Terry

June 7, 2008

Dear Patty, Anna, Lou, and Mike,

I want you to know how grateful we are for having had the opportunity to know your dad, your mom and your family and enjoy good times together. John and Fosca embodied kindness, generosity, industriousness, and humor. What extraordinary role models for us high school kids to have had! Your parents will be dearly missed and long remembered. At this time of your father's passing please accept our sincerest condolences.

David Terry and Family

Jan Holmes

June 6, 2008

It is diificult to imagine practicing law in Martinez without John and Fosca to keep us in line! Every attorney whose life you have touched -- and there are hundreds of us -- will always remember your kindness and spirit, your generosity and positive outlook, your hard work and dedication to making the world a better place. Thank you for your many years of service to the legal community, and for the example you have set for so many of us. At last, maybe you will rest ... but more likely you are already getting things straightened out up there in heaven!

Tracy Cooper

June 6, 2008

Hey Zandos,

It's been some time since I saw John or Fosca, and I kept meaning to make it by the house to visit, but time gets away, and the next thing ya know, it's too late. I missed Fosca's services because I was out of town at the time. Now John' passing is an extension of my sadness.

Mom and Pop were very kind and generous to me, and so much fun to be around. I'll miss that.

Condolences to all of you, and Bon Voyage to John and Fosca. You were loved by a lot of people.

Nicole Kirwan

June 6, 2008

Uncle John,
It is hard to believe you are gone, but I know that you are where you want to be, with Auntie Fosca. You were one of the greatest men I will ever meet in my life, so honorable, hardworking, and ever so honest (even if it wasn't necessarily nice). I thank you for the oppurtunity to work for you for the majority of my adult life, it has been a wonderful experience, and I miss punching that timeclock at the restaraunt and office everyday. I will cherish those memories forever and never forget the traits of a hardworker you instilled in me. I love you and Auntie Fosca, and even though it hurts that you are both gone, we all take comfort in the fact that you are together again.

Mary Sena

June 6, 2008

Lou, Patti, Mike, and Anna:

Your mom and dad were wonderful people. Would do anything for anyone.

I met them about 30 years ago when Lou and I went to the court reporting academy in San Francisco. Everyone was crammed into the little house/office in Concord. They were wonderful to me through the years.

I considered it an honor to know both of them and their very close-knit family. You all should be proud and happy they are together again. They were quite a team.

Floyd Martinez

June 6, 2008

To the Zandoneela Family:
We heard of your Dad's passing from friends in Pittsburg. Our prayers and thoughts are with you all at this time. We really enjoyed knowing your parents during our brief stay in Pittsburg. They were always nice and pleasant to us and always had kind words to say. We will keep John and Fosca and your families in our prayers.

Our sincerest condolences,
Floyd and Carol Martinez
Huffman, TX

Chuck Rider

June 6, 2008

I remember John and Fosca fondly. They were a great couple and I got to work with their whole family at Zap Printing in the house on Concord Blvd. John always seemed to be involved in helping others whether it was family or community. I thank him for the opportunity he gave me while I was still in school. You don't see that with too many business owners these days. To the rest of the Zandonella family you have my sincere condolences, I am sorry for your loss.

Pat Starkman

June 5, 2008

I had the privilege and pleasure of knowing both John and Fosca. They were truly extraordinary people, and will always have a special place in my heart. Now they are together again and at peace. My deepest sympathy to the Zandonella family.

Marion Muther

June 5, 2008

Our thoughts are with you at this time. We are sad to hear of your loss and send our prayers to the family.

Bob and Yvonne Ayres

June 5, 2008

We are saddened by the loss of your father.

He was a wonderful man. We continue to miss your mom and we talk about the two of them quite often.

Laurie Comstock

June 5, 2008

Lou, Patty, Mike and Anna:

I am so sorry about the loss of your dad. He was a very wonderful man and I will miss him and your mom a lot.

They both meant a great deal to me.
They helped me through a very difficult time in my life.

I know the pain of losing your parents. My dad died when I was 13, he was only 39. My mother died on April 20th, 2007. I miss her so much. It's a very different feeling when both your parents are gone.

If I can help in any way, feel free to call me. Unfortunately, I won't be able to make the services for your dad but you all will be and have been in my prayers.

I am sure you have heard this before, but at least your mom and dad are together again. Some day we will all be together.

Take care.

Love,

Jill Malone

June 4, 2008

Dear Zandonella Family,
We extend our deepest sympathy to all of you. Your father was an amazing man who was loved and cherished by all those who knew him. He gave of himself daily to all of those around him. It was an honor to have worked for such an honorable man. He made everyone feel so special! May he be at peace now with your Mom. He will forever be in my heart.
Jill Malone and Family

Anthony Galli

June 4, 2008

To the Children of John and Fosca,
May your sorrow be wrap in the knowledge that your parents, showed not only you and your children how special life really is, but they also showed everyone else who had the opportunity to enjoy their company and yours.
May you all carry the Zandonella torch with pride and dignity as John and Fosca always did.

Mr. and Mrs. I Galli
Stockton, CA
Mr. and Mrs. A. Galli
Dublin, CA

Maria A

June 4, 2008

Sir John:

I knew you were in such pain, but you never gave in to it. Undaunted by it all, you braved each and every day no matter how bad it may have seemed and felt. You were constantly surrounded by your loving, doting family and I thank them for warmly receiving me. I was given the rare privilege of taking care of you albeit for a short period of time. You never complained, but we knew the discomfort you felt. although we could never really relate to it. You managed to smile every so often, you laughed at my foibles and my misadventures. I was glad to have seen your smile---one that will linger in my mind forever. I shall always remember that! The Lord had other plans for you and I know you are in a much better place. Your family will miss you profoundly, but they shall take comfort that you are now pain free and happily dancing with your loving wife, Fosca. Rest in Peace, Sir John! You have done well, Sir John. Your legacy lives on ---love of family which your children and grandchildren have generously shared.

Eternal rest grant unto John, oh Lord, and Let perpetual light shine upon him. May He rest in peace, amen!

Sarah Benton

June 4, 2008

Mr. Zandonella was a great man who lived a fulfilling life. He was known and loved by so many. May you Rest in Peace. My heart goes out to all the family in your time of grief. Stay stong and know that John and Fosca are together again watching over us all.

Patty Fay Nasty

June 4, 2008

Dearest John, First of all let me say that you will be deeply missed by me, and by any individual who had the opportunity of knowing you. John, you were definately an incredible man, and I believe that you were, "The Original Rock of Gibraltar". I am grateful that I was able to witness you spreading your love, your humor, your sarcasm, your respect, and your positive character traits thru out. You wholeheartedly gave life your "ALL"----and I am truly fortunate that I was able to observe you and hopefully learn from you....I will always miss those days of working with you, watching you jump thru hoops for all---and just trying to keep up with you was definately a challenging task.
I repeatedly told you that you always reminded me of my Dad whom I love unconditionally, and I am thankful to you for treating me just like one of your daughters, (maybe a red-headed step-daughter), regardless I am grateful for that.
You and Fosca together were, "The Almighty Duo", and absolutely no one could stand in your way. Now, you and Fosca can walk on water, hand in hand in divine eternity.
John, your family and friends are definately going to miss you terribly-but you unequivocally left behind so many memorable moments that they will cherish forever, ( myself included).
John Zandonella,I can say that I will always have a place for you in my heart, and May God Bless You Always.............
Love You Lots and Always,
Patty Fay Nasty

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