Giovanni Fucci

Giovanni “John” Fucci, age 91 of Warren, died Monday, August 10, 2020 at Ascension St. John Hospital in Warren. He was born January 27, 1929 in Benevento, Italy, son of the late Ferdinando and the late Antoinette (nee: Ranauro) Fucci.

Known more affectionately to all as “John,” he was an Italian immigrant who came to America in search of a dream in the land of opportunity, John was a strong-willed man with a pure & good heart. He embodied all the traits of a hard working man, and always dedicated the best of himself in whatever he tackled. Though a part of his work history included a stint or two in masonry, his longstanding career was spent in the chrome plating industry where his skills and expertise were well suited. John was devoted to the principle of seeing a job to its completion, and being a part of producing quality work.

But John’s work ethics weren’t merely centered around his workplace,…they were also seen in the beautiful garden he maintained and nurtured. Possessing the “heart of a horticulturalist,” the results of John’s green thumb, and tireless efforts in creating a thing of beauty and fruitfulness, was witnessed by all who were fortunate enough to see the work of his backyard patch. And of all he grew, there was probably none more special than the tender-loving-care he poured into his coveted Fig Trees. They were truly his jewels amongst all that he nurtured.

For those who truly knew John, they’ll be able to attest to his immense passion when it came to food. He was, indeed, a Food Aficionado! Whether he was eating it, preparing it, serving it, or sharing it with the masses, John’s Italian heritage truly shined when food came into the picture. Known for being a great cook, his family and friends were always excited and enthralled whenever an invitation came their way to share a meal at John’s Place. And he always made a hearty portion of food, as well, just in case somebody might want a doggie bag to take home,…and over the years, John provided thousands of doggie bags to family and friends alike. And of course, what’s a meal without wine, and John was a true “connoisseur of the grape.” So much so that, not only did he imbibe in a glass or two from time to time, he actually dabbled in a bit of winemaking as well. It was simply the Italian thing to do, right?

When it came time for a little R&R, John was always up for the entertainment he enjoyed on the television. A favorite chair in front of the TV would often find John swept away,…especially when it involved a good soccer game. or the benefits and highlights provided by the Italian Channel. With the latter, John loved being ushered back to the land and familiarity of his native Italy,…if only for a few moments in time. But taking that a step further,…he not only enjoyed the long-distance connections with family and loved ones overseas, but things became even more special when he hopped on a plane and bridged the gap by paying them a visit. His trips to the “old country” were forever a great source of reflection and love, and the making of wonderful memories to last a lifetime. As the old adage states; “you can take the boy out of the country, but you can’t take the country out of the boy.”

A loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, John leaves behind a unique, genuine and loving legacy to be embraced with each remembrance shared. He touched a multitude of hearts and souls in his journey through life, and now goes on ahead to rejoin his beloved Ida. He will be missed immensely and loved eternally.   

John was the beloved husband of the late Ida. Dearest father of Geraldine “Gerri” (Chuck) Heinrich and Joann (the late Stephen) Crumm. Loving grandfather of Eric (Thao), Julian (Taelor), Ian, and great-grandfather of Cole and Tate. Brother of Anna, Sara, Rosa, Maria, the late Michele, the late Tony, and the late Vincenzo.

Visitation for John will be held Thursday, August 13th from 3-9 pm, with a 6:30 pm Rosary Service, at the D.S. Temrowski & Sons Funeral Home, 30009 Hoover Road at Common (12 ½ Mile Rd) in Warren.

He will lie in state on Friday from 9:30 am until time of the Funeral Mass at 10:00 am at St. Mary, Our Lady Queen of Families Catholic Church – St. Clement Site in Center Line. Officiating the funeral liturgy will be Rev. Fr. Robert Bauer. Entombment will follow at Resurrection Cemetery in Clinton Township, Michigan.

Memorial donations are welcomed to the American Heart Association, 3816 Paysphere Circle, Chicago, IL 60674 (www.heart.org) or to the Capuchin Ministries, 1820 Mt. Elliott Street, Detroit, MI 48207 (www.cskdetroit.org)  

Please share memories of Giovanni at his guest book below.