Delina Pierina Violini

Delina "Abby" Pierina Violini passed away peacefully, at her home on June 28, 2023. She was surrounded by her loving family and her long time caregiver, Malama. Abby was born on Oct. 6, 1932, to Bautista and Malvina Caraccioli, Italian and Swiss immigrants. A lifelong resident of the Salinas Valley, she was raised in Greenfield and attended King City High School. Abby, a King City High cheerleader, met, dated and married Henry Violini, a Gonzales High football player. Henry and Abby lived in Gonzales on the family farm until moving to Salinas three decades ago. They recently celebrated the 70th anniversary of their blessed marriage.

Abby deeply loved and cherished her family. Her generosity knew no bounds. She is survived by her husband, Henry; her son, Allan (Jesse); and daughter, Rhonda (Pedro). She adored her three grandchildren, two step grandchildren, two great-grandchildren and two step great-grandchildren. She will be truly missed but will forever live in their hearts.

As a young mother, Abby enjoyed working part time waitressing. She loved her customers at Emily's Fountain, The Sugar Bowl, The Palace, Sammy's and La Scuola. Abby also found time to help out in her children's schools and local community. She was an active member of the California Mule Deer Association, the Italian Catholic Daughters and a member of the Gonzales chapter of the California Young Homemakers, where she served as State President. In her younger years, she enjoyed bowling and was always ready for a game of Liverpool Rummy or Pedro. More recently, she enjoyed Bingo at Madonna del Sasso or getting together with friends for Bunco and Mexican Train.

A Holy Mass will be offered at St. Theodore's Catholic Church in Gonzales on Friday, Aug. 25, 2023, at 4:00 p.m. A Celebration of Life will be held at Toro Park's Buckeye Picnic area on Aug. 26, 2023, at 12:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, please make a memorial donation to your favorite charity.

Published in King City Rustler and Salinas Valley Tribune · July 7, 2023