William Lawrence Farnesi (98) was born on September 3, 1922, in Madera CA to Alfredo and Caterina (Tocchini) Farnesi. He passed away peacefully on July 14, 2021, in Fresno, CA. “Bill” attended Madera grammar Schools and graduated from Madera High School in 1942. While in High School he played baseball, ran track where he set County records and was a stand-out basketball player, and enjoyed many social clubs on campus as well.
By this time, his Father had already opened Madera’s first gas station where Bill spent many hours working afternoons and evenings for the family business. Bill also found he had a passion for woodworking and crafting, it wasn’t long before he found a place at Dean & McNally as a cabinetmaker. This love and craft would remain with him for the rest of his life.
When WWII began, Bill was signed up for the Army and became a part of the Army Air Corp., which would later become the US Air Force. While serving his Country he would become a Staff Sergeant and Crew Chief for a B-17 group and part of the 388th Bomb squadron. He also received the following commendations: “European African Middle Eastern Campaign Medal”, Good Conduct Medal, Distinguished unit Badge with oak clusters.
Upon returning home, he quickly kept busy by helping his Dad at his bar “Skeeko’s”. Soon he would catch the eye of Bruna Forasieppi who would become his loving wife until her passing in 2000. In November of 1956, they welcomed their only child son, Donald Anthony. Seeing a growing family, Bill took a job at M&T Distributors in Fresno, where he would distribute Beer and Spirits to establishments around the valley.
Bill also became involved with the 20/30 International Club where he enjoyed many events and trips with the group, as they spread goodwill and needed supplies to the children of the community. Bill and Bruna were able to find time to get away for weekends and head to their Family Cabin in Fish Camp, CA where they always enjoyed spending time in the Mountains. Their greatest joy was found when their only Grandchild was born in 1990. Dean became the center of their attention and they all spent many hours playing, learning Italian, and cooking.
Bill had lived his last eight years with Don and Cheryl. During this time he tried to help Cheryl in her cooking skills, they had many wonderful times and burnt dinners together.
Bill is preceded in death by his loving wife Bruna, his parents Alfredo and Caterina Farnesi, and Sisters Mabel Errecart and Betty Colon.
He is survived by his son and Daughter-in-Law Donald and Cheryl Farnesi and beloved Grandson Dean Farnesi and Fiance Sydney Rusconi, Sister Lillian Wagner, and Brother Raleigh Farnesi, Numerous Nieces and Nephews, and many friends and loved ones. He was lovingly cared for by Lucille Gamble and Nina’s Homecare loving staff, St. Agnes Hospice care, and RN Olivia, who were all were blessings to the family and to Bill.
Private services under the direction of Jay Chapel, Madera, CA
In lieu of flowers, please consider making donations to: Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1981 of Madera, 2026 N. Granada Drive, Madera, CA 93637
