Romano John Giacomini's Obituary
Romano (Ray) John Giacomini was born December 7, 1930, and went to heaven on August 23, 2025. Ray was born in Gary, IN to Lorenzo and Luiga (Louise) Giacomini, Italian immigrants from Udine, Italy. Our Dad and Nonno is survived by his daughter, Tina, son-in-law, Jeff, his granddaughters, Mallory and Paige, nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his devoted wife of 59 years, Mary Louise, his parents, Lorenzo and Louise, his brother, Larry, and brothers-in-law, Mimo and Fred.
Ray was born at the beginning of the Great Depression. His father became unemployed, and the bank closed – taking his parents’ savings. This left a big impact on him and affected the way he looked at life. Ray graduated from Merrillville High School in Merrillville, IN. He worked in the steel industry before enlisting in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. After leaving the U.S. Army, he attended Purdue University and received a degree in Electrical Engineering. He secured a job with Boeing and left for Washington state, which he affectionately called “God’s country”. He vowed never to return to the cold winters of Indiana. While at Boeing, Ray met a beautiful security clearance clerk (Mary Louise) and they married in June 1962. Soon after, Ray was transferred to Vandenberg AFB to work on missiles. After a few years, he went to work for Lockheed in San Diego. During his career in San Diego, Ray worked on the DSRV, Deep Submergence Rescue Vehicles. San Diego became home, residing there for over 50 years.
Ray was a family man. His family always came first. He was a wonderful provider, a great teacher and a fixer extraordinaire. Ray and Mary Louise enjoyed many years of retirement and travel with family and friends. Their devotion to their granddaughters made a huge impact on their lives. We are eternally grateful for the additional years we had with him. Rest in Peace Dad and Nonno. Continue to watch over us and provide guidance. Give Mom and Nonna a hug and kiss from us – SEE YOU LATER ALLIGATOR!
Ray’s family would also like to thank his wonderful caregivers, Judy, Janet, Olympia and Virginia. He could not have stayed in his home without your love and assistance. We would also like to express our gratitude to the staff at Harborview Senior Assisted Living and Honor View Hospice. Thank you for your care.
Funeral mass is Wednesday, September 17th at 11am, St Catherine Laboure Catholic Church, 4124 Mt Abraham Ave. San Diego, CA 92111
In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Autism Society of America, San Diego Chapter SWIM PROGRAM. 4699 Murphy Canyon Rd. San Diego, CA 92123
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