Alvaro R. Virissimo

May 8, 1926 – April 22, 2012

Alvaro Roland Virissimo passed away April 22, 2012. Roland was the eldest son of Manuel G. Virissimo and Conceição Da Luz Virissimo; born May 8, 1926 in San Pedro, CA the second of five children. The family moved to San Diego when Roland was a year old and settled in Pt. Loma. He attended Cabrillo Elementary and Pt. Loma High School. Roland began fishing as a teenager; He then joined the U.S. Navy and served as a Seabee in the Pacific during World War II. After the war, he returned to Tuna Fishing. Roland’s fishing career spanned more than 55 years where he Skippered and owned many Tuna Vessels, including the Hornet and the Jeanne Lou. He was one of the first Captains to offload tuna on the island of Puerto Rico, where he was based for many years. He was known throughout the Tuna Industry as one of the most successful captain of his time. During his career he touched many lives; He always was willing to help young Captains learn the tricks of the trade. He was so proud when his sons followed in his footsteps to become successful Tuna Boat Skippers.

Roland married the love of his life Louise, July 11, 1948. They were married for sixty two years, had six children, sixteen grandchildren and eleven great grandchildren who affectionately called him Papa

Roland enjoyed extensive travels with Louise, friends and family. He was well known in the Pt. Loma Portuguese community and was very proud of his Portuguese heritage.

Roland was known for his infectious smile, sense of humor and his great laugh. He was always with a cigar and will forever be remembered for the famous gleam in his eyes especially when telling a story. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Roland is preceded in death by his beloved wife Louise, his parent’s, five siblings, Mary, Manuel “Ollie”, Richard “Cookie” and Juliette “Julie”.

He is survived by his six children, Roland (Pat), Jeanne, Robert (Odette), William (Kathryn), Gregory (Gina) Philip (Bernie) his grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Rosary at 7:00 p.m. on Sunday, April 29th at Beardsley Mitchell Funeral Home, 1818 Sunset Cliffs Blvd. Services will be held Monday, April 30th at St. Agnes Catholic Church, 1140 Evergreen Street at 10:00 a.m. Entombment will be at Holy Cross Catholic Cemetery and Mausoleum 4470 Hilltop drive immediately following the mass.

In lieu of flowers, (please) send donations to the Alzheimer’s Association San Diego/Imperial Chapter or San Diego Hospice