BAKERSFIELD, Calif. — Local vineyard CEO John G. Giumarra, Jr. died Sunday, June 30 at the age of 78. His death was confirmed by the company he headed, Giumarra Vinyards Corporation.
Giumarra is survived by Pamela Giumarra, his wife of 53 years; five children, John Giumarra III: Randy Giumarra and his wife Barri: Juliana Houchin and husband Clayton: Jillian Houchin and husband Morgan: Joseph Cristopher Giumarra, and 15 grandchildren.
"John Jr. was very charismatic and a diverse leader," John Corsaro, CEO of the Giumarra Companies, wrote in a release. "His skill set included being an attorney, and he also had a vast understanding of marketing and a vision for the future. This was exhibited by the strong breeding program fostered by Giumarra Vineyards and the varieties that are now in the ground. But at the end of the day, what I most admired about John Jr. was his dedication to his family despite a very busy schedule."
"His love for life was immeasurable, his energy near endless, his charisma infectious and his commitment to family, friends and the success of our industry his tireless goal," wrote Randy Giumarra of Giumarra Vineyards Corporation. "Our family is eternally grateful and we will miss him dearly."
A visitation is planned for Thursday, July 11 from 6 to 8 p.m., followed by a celebration of his life on Friday, July 12 at 10 a.m. Both will be held at St. Francis of Assisi Parish at 900 H St. in Bakersfield.
