Obituary of Gary Marino Bianchi

Gary Merino Bianchi, a lifetime resident of Hollister, was known to many. Whether you knew him through 4-H, FFA, Band Boosters, Portuguese Celebrations, Pedro parties, Cattleman’s, Draft Horse Associations, or as a Dairyman; all would agree he was an avid supporter and hard-working volunteer. No matter how you made Gary’s acquaintance you would soon learn his trickster sense of humor. Gary often showed his fondness for others through teasing and playing great pranks when you least expected it! Gary was born July 12, 1941, to John and Mary Bianchi. He attended Hollister High School where he was a member of FFA, beginning the tradition of Bianchi’s belonging to the same FFA chapter. Soon after his 1959 graduation, Gary met RoseMarie; they were married for 60 years. In 1966 Gary took over the family dairy on Lovers Lane, where they raised their three sons. Gary belonged to the I.S.T.W. of Watsonville where he proudly served as President. His dedication to local youth in agriculture was apparent as he served as a 4-H volunteer for over 40 years. He also enjoyed working with his teams of draft horses and mules. After the dairy closed, Gary proudly converted the milking parlor into the “Bianchi Party Barn” where many cherished gatherings have been held and enjoyed by family & friends alike. Gary is survived by his wife RoseMarie, and sons Richard (Tiffany), Robert (Chris), and Rodney (Kelly). His legacy continues further through his grandchildren; Erica (Steven) Pirnik, Juli, Hannah, Emma (Will) Corn, Mitchell (Katrina), John (Tiffany), and Abby. Gary was blessed with one great-granddaughter, Mila Pirnik. He is also survived by his many nieces & nephews and his sister Maxine. Gary passed peacefully, surrounded by his family on August 11, 2024. We will have a party (per his wishes) to celebrate Gary, on November 10th at Swank’s Farm. In place of flowers, The Bianchi Family Scholarship Fund has been established at the Community Foundation for San Benito County.