Sunnyvale

Carlo passed away peacefully with his family at his side this past Tuesday morning, March 21st.

His health had been declining for the past year, but his love for life, family, good food and wine never diminished.

Carlo was born in San Francisco where he lived until the age of 12. His parents, Charlie and Lee owned several businesses in the city, one of which was a ravioli factory, Torino Ravioli. Sleeping to the white noise of the pasta machine and generally covered in flour while sleeping in a wooden box, was Carlo’s introduction to the wonderful Italian food he loved to eat and make throughout his life.

In 1946 the family moved to a 10 acre parcel of land in Palo Alto where his parents opened a Nursery called Marenco’s Nursery on the corner of Alma and San Antonio.

During this time Carlo would attend and graduate from Bellarmine College Prep, class of 1952, and later Menlo Business College. After college his parents needed help in running the nursery and it was here that he met the love of his life, Rose Bo, while delivering plants to her parents house. The two married in March 1959 after Carlo served two years in the Navy in Hawaii. They settled in Sunnyvale where Carlo worked at the family grocery store, Bo’s Market until 1968. After the market sold Carlo went into sales for Pellegrini Brothers wine distributors where he learned a lot about our state’s expanding wine industry and developed a passion for good food and wine. While working as a wine salesman Carlo realized that the south bay area was lacking quality lunch spots where one could grab a quick meal. Thus the Friendly Franciscan Deli was born. As with any restaurant the hours were long but the work was exciting and many lasting friendships were formed with staff and customers from 1978 to 1986. Eventually the long hours did catch up with Carlo and Rose so the shop was sold and the two took a much needed trip to Italy. Upon returning he obtained his real estate license and worked in the Sunnyvale area for over 15 years. Carlos was a longtime member of the Sons of Italy Wm. Paca Lodge #1960, and the Amici D'Oro, San Jose.

Over the years Carlo pursued his love for the outdoors through hunting, skiing, foraging for mushrooms and golf. Once he “retired” he really had time to develop his cooking, sourdough bread baking and of course wine making skills. Needless to say he was never bored.

Carlo is survived by his wife, Rose, of 64 years, son Marco Marenco, (Cathi), daughter Marina Marenco (Bill) deceased, and grandson, Jim Marenco, and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

A Funeral Mass will be held Thursday, March 30th, at 11am at Church of the Resurrection, 725 Cascade Drive, Sunnyvale. Visitation will begin at 10 a.m. prior to Mass at Church. Interment to follow at Gate of Heaven Cemetery.

Donations can be made in honor of Carlo to the charity or Non-Profit of your choice. Please view/sign guestbook: cusimanocolonial.com