Gennaro "Jerry" Giampaolo

Gennaro “ Jerry” Giampaolo was born on August 26,1934 to Michele and Maria in Accadia Foggia, Italy. At the age of 14 Jerry attended seminary school where he gained an appreciation for history and theology. He said he would often be in trouble for playing tricks on the priests and ultimately left the seminary at the age of 19 because they wanted him to cut his hair, or at least that is the story he always told. It was at this point that he decided to follow his older Brother Antonio (Tony) and Sisters Angela (Lina), Teresa (Sisina) who had migrated to Canada to start their new lives. Jerry's younger brother Pasquale (Pat) also migrated to Canada. Upon his arrival, he found work in various places including the railroad and the local horse racetracks in Canada. Being new to the country, he would go out with friends on Saturday nights to meet new people; they would go to dance and social clubs in Buffalo, NY. It was at one of these events at the YWCA that Jerry would meet the love of his life, Elvira Besednjack. Jerry and Elvira were married June 25, 1960. They welcomed sons Michael in 1960 and Jerry Jr. in 1962. It was at this point Jerry decided to make the decision to leave Canada and follow some friends to California for the job opportunities that were offered. Jerry immediately found work and then brought the family to California where he remained until his passing. Their daughter Mary was born in 1964. Jerry Started working as a painter, then became a foreman and superintendent until he was seriously injured on the job. Because of his injuries, he changed occupations and became an Apartment owner. He then got into the retail business by acquiring a mini market/liquor store, and ultimately sold the store to pursue an opportunity in the insurance business. He went to work for United Insurance, where he started as an agent and quickly rose to success and was promoted to several management positions, until he retired after spending 34 years with that company. After retiring Jerry and Elvira enjoyed traveling and spending time at casinos throughout the country. He was an avid gardener; his fruit trees and vegetable garden were always perfectly tended, and his yard was always well manicured. Jerry was the ultimate handyman; there wasn’t anything he couldn’t fix. Jerry enjoyed playing cards every Saturday night with the same group of friends he had for over 50 years- those weekly card games were the highlight of his week. He loved watching hockey; his favorite team was the LA Kings. He also loved politics and history. He could debate any subject and would usually win the debate. He enjoyed solving Italian crossword puzzles, but the last few years his Ipad became his obsession. Jerry loved his Grandchildren and was so proud of all their accomplishments. He was always the happiest when surrounded by his family, especially during the Holidays, at the Cabin in Lake Arrowhead, a backyard bar-b-que or the dinner table. He enjoyed cooking, never followed a recipe and always trying something new. Sometimes we had no idea what we were eating, but it was always amazing. His gnocchi was a family favorite, especially by his Grandson Matthew. Jerry spent his 85th birthday driving to Harrah’s casino in San Diego with his loving wife. Once they arrived, they checked in, went up to their room to rest before he would start playing his favorite card games. Jerry hugged his wife of 59 years, told her he loved her and passed the next day surrounded by his Wife, Children and Grandchildren. He was loved by all that ever met him and will be missed every single day

- RIP Jerry, we LOVE YOU