Scottsdale, Arizona

A Life Rich in Family, Education, and Relationships John Edward Pulli, 89, a beloved husband, father, grandfather passed away peacefully on February 11, 2025 in Scottsdale, Arizona, leaving behind a legacy of love and cherished memories. Born and raised in Oakland, California, John was a proud product of the parochial school system, where the foundations offaith, discipline, and service to others were instilled in him from an early age.

Born to immigrant parents, John embraced his Italian and Irish heritage, with pride.

His upbringing instilled in him a deep sense of family values.

Attending St. Bernard’s Grammar School and St. Elizabeth High School, John grew up in classrooms where faith and education went hand inhand, shaping alife defined by integrity, kindness, andadeep senseofduty. Theseattributes carriedthroughashe committed 45years asaneducator.

From ayoung age, John fell in love with the game ofbaseball. He would listen tothe radio, captivated by the thrilling voices ofthe announcers as they brought the game to life. He especially admired legendary players like Joe DiMaggio, Willie Mays, and Sandy Koufax. His love forthe sporttranslatedintohis ownsuccess on the field—he wasa stand out baseball player at St. Elizabeth’s, earning All-County recognition as atalented left-handed pitcher, who threw several no-hitters. His baseball journey continued atSan Francisco City College and San Francisco State University, where he played while earning his degree in education. Agreat moment in his baseball career was when hehad the incredible opportunity topitch batting practice for the Oakland Oaks inthe Pacific Coast League. His passion for baseball continued beyond his college years. Many a Sunday hepacked uphis gear to play with the “Old timers” throughout the Bay Area.

John dedicated his career to education and leadership. His journey ineducation took him through the Berryessa, Portola Valley, and Mountain View school districts, where he served in many roles — teacher, principal, counselor, and coach. He served as President of the Portola Valley Teachers Association and later asPresident of the Mtn. View Elementary Principals, A.C.S.A. Whether in the classroom, on the field, or guiding students through life’s challenges, healways led with compassion and anunwavering belief inthe potential ofevery young person he encountered. Helater earned his Master’s degree in Guidance and Counseling from San Jose State University.

In his younger years, John also had adeep passion for music and entertaining. During his bachelor days, heloved to sing and perform, even taking the stage atthe ful-Awful Club inSan Jose. Hefound great joy inmusic and was especially fond ofAw- the timeless sounds of the Four Freshman, Sinatra, Dean Martin, and Matt Monro.

But beyond his career in education, John’s heart belonged to San Francisco sports. He wasadevotedfan, holding season ticketsatKezar andCandlestick for42years, where he built lifelong traditions with his family. Many cherished memories in the Niner parkinglot.

One of his greatest joys was traveling to Scottsdale every March for spring training, where hecould watch his Giants upclose and soak inthe excitement of the new season.

John also had adeep affinity for gardening, particularly tomato plants. With atrue green thumb, he cultivated alushhome gardenin Cupertino, growinggreen beans, zucchini, tomatoes and corn—skills he proudly learned from his father, who had mastered the art ofgardening in the old country.

To supplement his career in education —and maybe just for the love of good company —John also worked at Rosotti’s, formerly known as the Alpine Inn in Portola Valley.

Whether behind the bar orswapping stories, he brought warmth, humor, and a deep sense ofcamaraderie to the historic watering hole, becoming a fixture inthe community.

John hadarare andspecial gift — the ability to connect with anyone, anywhere. He had away ofmaking people feel at home. His warmth, humor, and genuine interest in others turned everyday encounters into lasting friendships. But above all else, John’s happiest days were spent when his family was together. Nothing brought him more joy than having his children and grandchildren in the same room — laughing, eating, and sharing stories. Those moments, filled with love, good food, and lively conversation, were the ones hecherished most. His family was his greatest pride, and he made sure they knew itevery single day.

At the heart ofhis existencewere his family, friendship, and education. John was a devoted husband to his beloved wife, Karen, with whom heshared years oflove and companionship. Together, theybuilt abeautifulfamily, blessedwiththree children and nine grandchildren.

He is survived by his wife, Karen of58years; his children Jon (Laura), Karianne, Kyle (Lisa); and his nine grandchildren; Nico, Marie, Sofia, Elizabeth, Gianna, Lauren, Alia, Vivien, and Antoinette. Hewas predeceased by his beloved parents, Marie and John Pulli, as well as his sister, Gloria Whitfield Pulli; and two brothers who passed away in infancy.

Family and friends are invited to attend John’s funeral service, which will beheld on March 28, 2025, 1pmatSt. Elizabeth Parish, Oakland. A celebration of John’s life will follow at Scoma’s in San Francisco.

A private family inurnment will take place at St. Joseph’s Cemetery in San Pablo, CA.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to St. Elizabeth School in Oakland to support tuition assistance for low-income students. Contributions may be sent to St. Elizabeth School, Attn: Sylvia Rodriquez 1516 33rd Ave. Oakland, CA 94601, in honor of John Pulli.