Obituary: John R. Giurlani

John R. Giurlani, 72, passed away at home surrounded by his loving family on July 21, 2012 following a brief battle with leukemia.

Johnny had developed many deep and long-lasting friendships throughout his life. He treasured each and every one. His heart was filled with gratitude and appreciation for the outpouring of love during his illness. As early as last week, with that special smile of his face he said, "I didn't know I had touched so many lives."

John dedicated 23 years of service as a fireman/engineer with Carson City Fire Department. He had a passion for, and dedication to, his job. He especially cherished the lifelong friendships he made along the way. He was proud of his career and frequently shared stories over the years about experiences with his firehouse buddies.

After retiring from the fire service, John volunteered to work with special needs students' grades 9-12. He had deep regard and love for each of the students, Special Education teachers, and staff at Carson High School.

One year after volunteering quickly turned into a paid position where, due to retirement restrictions, John had to take time off periodically so his pension would not be impacted. He had many "going away" and "welcome back" parties. The students and staff loved him.

In passing, John leaves all of us with memories of his contagious laugh, wonderful sense of humor, and generous kindness. He was a man who always treated others as he wished to be treated. Over the years he enjoyed connections with his amazing friends from high school and looked forward to reunions and the tales of "remember when." He was also an avid fisherman, loved camping and found solitude in his garden.

He leaves behind his treasured wife, Kathi; his beloved children, Roy (Susie), Gina (Rich) Johnson, Sean, Scott (Tricia) and Shannon Stevens; his much treasured grandchildren, Matthew and Connor Johnson, Caity (Peterson), Jacob, Rachel, Joshua, and Bethany Giurlani, Megan Stevens; and great-grandson, Isaiah Williams; sisters, Elizabeth Supera, Judy Wood; and brother, Sam (Helen) Giurlani; numerous nieces, nephews, friends and extended family.

John had a deep faith in God, which guided him throughout his life. Knowing his journey was soon to change, Johnny was excited for the reunion he would soon have with his brothers, Roy and Egidio Giurlani and a multitude of family and friends.

Although his legacy lives on, he will be profoundly missed.

John was troubled by the notion of children having to fight a similar battle with cancer and so we ask that in lieu of flowers please make donations to St. Baldrick's foundation for childhood cancer. www.stbaldricks.org

There will be visitation on Thurs./Fri. July 26-27 from 5pm-8pm and a Memorial Service on Saturday, July 28 at 10:00am. FitzHenry's Funeral Home in Carson City, NV is handling arrangements.