Richard Daniel Masoni

Richard was born in a house on Rucker Avenue and lived in Gilroy his entire life, a community he was proud to be a part of. He was a kind person of high integrity, and all who knew him loved him.

Richard served as a Sgt. Cook in the Army during the Korean Conflict. He was a lifelong farmer who grew tree and row crops alongside his brothers. He was a member of Sunsweet Growers, the Santa Clara County Farm Bureau, and served on the Board of the Gavilan Water District.

Throughout his 99 years, he was involved in various organizations. Highlights included being a founding member and treasurer of Gilroy’s first motorcycle club, “The Knights,” alongside his best friends Tommy Castro, Louie Scettrini, and Tony Barrena. Together with Ben Gilroy, Richard helped start Gilroy’s first wrestling club, “The Hawks,” where he served as a director on the board.

His greatest love in life was his ever-growing family. He is survived by his children, Clorinda Sergi (Jim), Saldrrena Bettencourt, Riccardo Masoni (Debra), Lewchonna Masoni (Mark), and Lanna Sandoval (Gabe); 12 grandchildren; almost 21 great-grandchildren; and many beloved nephews and nieces.

He was predeceased by his parents, Clorinda Sartor and Salvatore Masoni; his brothers, Frank, Louis, and Salvatore Masoni; his infant son, Salvatore Masoni; his first wife, Viola Basinger; and his longtime companion, Joanne Tryforos.

Throughout his entire life, Richard firmly believed, and wanted it to be known to all, that “We live in the GREATEST country in the world.”

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation in Richard’s honor to the Northern California Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association.