Francisco was the eldest child of Domenico and Maria Sanfilippo. He is survived by sisters Antonina Castagnola and Rosalie Lococo. His wife of 63 years Florence and their children: Dominic, Andrew (Barbara), Frank, (Julie). He was preceded in death by daughter Maria Balistreri (Tom). Francisco was lovingly known as "Flipper" around the docks and to all his friends and fellow fishermen. Known as "Poppa" to the his grandchildren, Frank, Michelle, Marianna, Nicholus, Maria, Denise, Frankie, Florence, Peter, and Dominic and six great-grandchildren.
Francisco was a tuna fisherman his whole life. His great joy was fishing for albacore on his boat the Dante. He will always be remembered as a great cook and a guy you could go to if you needed anything. Always joking and kidding till his last breath.
Rosary and Funeral Mass will be held Wednesday, June 1st, 10 a.m. at Our Lady of the Rosary Church. In lieu of flowers the family asks for donations to be made to San Diego Hospice.
Arrangements under the direction of Merkley-Mitchell Mortuary, San Diego, CA.
