Dennis M. Giorgetti 1940-2026

By Atascadero News · Sun Mar 01 2026

Dennis Michael Giorgetti passed away on February 10, 2026, in Paso Robles, California, at the age of 85.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Quinto and Mary Jane Giorgetti of Covelo, California, and his former wife, Sherry Giorgetti.

Dennis is survived by his sons, Michael Giorgetti of Arizona and Shawn Giorgetti of California; his sisters, Marguerite VanDame of Oregon, and Melissa Giorgetti-Anderson of California; his nieces, Cynthia Miller, Michele McQueen, Sarah VanDame, Andrea Giorgetti-Marson, and Alexandra Giorgetti-Anderson; and several great-nieces and nephews.

Dennis proudly served in the United States Air Force, enlisting in 1959. After basic training at Lackland Air Force Base, he was stationed at George Air Force Base with the 31st Tactical Fighter Wing. In 1960, he met Brigadier General Chuck Yeager, an experience he remembered fondly. As a fighter aircraft mechanic during the Cold War, Dennis held a Secret Security clearance and worked on frontline aircraft.

In October 1962, his unit was transferred to Homestead Air Force Base, where they stood on the front lines during the Cuban Missile Crisis. Dennis recalled watching President John F. Kennedy’s October 22 address announcing the discovery of Soviet missile sites in Cuba. He later served at Aviano Air Base and Kadena Air Base, supporting U.S. and NATO operations during a tense period of global conflict.

After his military service, Dennis worked as a truck driver for Fleming Foods and later with Teamsters Local 70 in Oakland alongside his longtime friend Joe Silva. He enjoyed attending union events and often spoke of meeting public figures such as Dianne Feinstein and Nancy Pelosi.

Dennis was also an avid cyclist, riding daily in the Danville and San Ramon areas where he lived. A serious bicycle accident resulted in a traumatic brain injury that forced his early retirement. He lived a good and happy life, even with the effects of his brain injury for 25 years.

Dennis will be remembered for his pride in service, his resilience, and entertaining stories.