Andrew Emil Gandolfo

Andrew (Andy) Emil Gandolfo Jr. was born in Modesto, CA on April 2, 1929 to Andrew E Gandolfo Sr. and Margaret Gandolfo. Loving husband of Lois Gandolfo for 66 years who preceded Andy to Heaven in January 2018. Survived by daughter Sally Baker (Bob), and sons Matthew  (Dawn) and Mark Gandolfo, sister Norma Baker, grandchildren Alex Baker, Amber Gandolfo, Amy Breen (Jacob) and Jason Baker (Katie) and great grandsons Asher Breen and Wesley Baker.

Andy attended Armstrong College in Richmond where he met Lois Kindt and graduated with a degree in accounting. Andy was a proud Korean War Veteran, having served from Dec 1950 - Nov 1952.  He made lifelong friends with his war buddies with whom he gathered yearly to stay in touch and reminisce.

He was a retired employee of Safeway stores, having started in the Accounting department in Oakland, CA before moving in the late 70’s to manage a new facility in Walnut Creek, CA. Rare in these times, Andy spent his entire 33 year career with Safeway and retired in 1989. In retirement, Andy continued to keep in touch with many former co-workers and attended annual retiree lunches and dinners.

Andy participated in a large number of activities over the years including: bocce, bowling, leadership roles in Cub Scout/Boy Scouts and 20 plus years of active engagement with the Native Sons of the Golden West.  

Lois and Andy, especially in their retirement years, took numerous trips and guided tours around the US and Italy.  Yosemite Valley was a favorite and the destination of their honeymoon.

Lois and Andy were well known at Christ the King Catholic Church amongst their self-proclaimed “pew buddies”, other congregants, nuns and priests.  Andy was also a familiar figure during the week at Christ the King having created his own Weed Abatement Ministry (volunteer gardening) and was frequently sighted around the church grounds sporting his custom printed shirt announcing that ministry.

By request, there are no planned public events. Donations can be sent to St. Vincent de Paul at Christ the King or CASA of Contra Costa County.