John Vincent Florio

John Florio, aged 71, passed away at home in San Francisco on February 8, following a 13-month illness with glioblastoma. John was the cherished husband of Barry Gilwarg and son of the late John and Mary (née DiBianco) Florio. Born on February 26, 1950, and raised in Orange, Connecticut, John was the youngest of seven children. He attended Amity High School in Woodbridge, CT and Northeastern University in Boston, MA.

John worked as a waiter and managed country clubs, later teaching in Stamford, CT before moving to California in 1999. John spent 18 years at Menlo-Atherton High School in Atherton, where he taught Advanced Placement (AP) European History and American Government before retiring in 2019.

John was basically an academic but embraced a wide range of interests, including world travel, the arts, politics, and history. He enjoyed reading and cooking and cared for all animals. Above all, he deeply loved his large family and wide circle of friends.

John is survived by his husband of 17 years, Barry Gilwarg, and his siblings, Anthony Florio (Pat) Phyllis Morazzini (Tony), Betty Sisken (Jesse) and Lena Peacock (Walt). John was predeceased by two sisters, MaryAnn Florio and Alice Magner.

At John’s request, no services will be held. He suggested that any tribute be made to local animal shelters. John’s ashes will be scattered in the waters off Cape Cod in Massachusetts.