Gino Paieri

Gino Paieri, 95, passed away peacefully at home, leaving behind a cherished legacy as a beloved grandfather, teacher, and friend. 

Born in Dubino, Italy, he immigrated to California in 1950, later marrying Wilma Facendini, his late wife of 30 years. Gino served as a medic in the US military during the Korean War Conflict before obtaining his undergraduate and Master’s degrees from Chico State in Industrial Education and Teaching. 

He embarked on a remarkable, decades-long teaching career starting at Petaluma High the year the new campus opened. His dedication to his students was unwavering, and his classroom was a place of inspiration and growth until he retired in 1992. Gino continued to ignite love for the Italian language and culture at SRJC until 2008. Gino and Wilma's late daughter Linda (Paieri) Dillon followed in his footsteps and taught high school students as well.

Those who knew Gino will remember his woodworking and crafting of furniture. His green thumb was evident in his large garden and collection of flourishing orchids. He also found joy in dancing, playing the accordion, and passing down cherished traditions from his Italian heritage.

Gino is survived by his grandchildren Mike Dillon and Christina Machado, her husband Mike, and his great-grandchildren Liam, Joey, and Lucca Gino; as well as his long-time companion, Minnie Corda.

If desired, consider donating blood to the Red Cross or a donation to the Petaluma Education Foundation in his name. A Memorial Scholarship Fund for PHS students is being created as well.

All are welcome to a rosary at Parent-Sorensen Mortuary at 4pm on Thursday and the funeral mass at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church at 1pm on Friday.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Gino Paieri, please visit our floral store.