Vincent Paul Messina
Obituary
Dr. Vincent Paul Messina, age 99, passed away peacefully at home in Healdsburg on February 6, 2026.
Vincent was born in Queens, New York, and raised in Yonkers with his four brothers and two sisters. As a young man, he moved west to attend Stanford University for his undergraduate studies and medical school. California became his home, and he never left.
He proudly served in the United States Navy during World War II before dedicating his life to the care of others. Vincent was a pediatrician at Kaiser Permanente in San Francisco for many years, where he was known not only for his clinical excellence but for his gentle manner with children.
Beyond medicine, Vincent was a builder in every sense of the word. He planted a vineyard and built the family home in Dry Creek Valley, creating a place for family to gather over the years. He carried a lifelong love of learning and culture-he was a devoted history buff, an avid reader, and a lover of classical music and opera. He played the piano, sang in the Stanford choir, found quiet joy in gazing at the moon and stars, and delighted in hosting Italian dinner parties filled with food and laughter. He was also almost always behind the camera, recording family moments, and would make multiple copies to share so that everyone could have a piece of the memory.
Above all else, Vincent valued family. He was deeply devoted to his wife, Cynthia, and took immense pride in his children: Jimmy, Kathryn, Christopher, and Cynthia. He was known for his humor, warmth, and gentle wit. Those who knew him would describe him as a true gentleman-gracious, kind, and deeply respectful of others.
Vincent is survived by his beloved wife, Cynthia, and his four children. He leaves behind a legacy of love, service, curiosity, and devotion to the people he loved.
A celebration of life will be held at the Messina residence on Sunday, February 22, 2026 from 12-4PM . Funeral services will follow on Monday, February 23, 2026 at 11AM at St. Johns.
Published in Healdsburg Tribune · February 16, 2026