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In memory of

Fr. John Guilbert Mariani

Ourém, Portugal

September 11, 1947 - June 26, 2020

Sep 11, 1947 - Jun 26, 2020

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Fr. John Guilbert Mariani, SOLT passed peacefully on June 26, 2020 in Ourem, Portugal. His presence remains in our hearts. He will be remembered as a profoundly unique man of extraordinary optimism with talent and power to transform his dreams into reality.

Born in Palo Alto, California on September 11, 1947 to Paul Andrew and Mary Frances Guilbert Mariani, he was the third of seven children and raised in rural Cupertino and Los Altos. The story of his life requires comfort with complexity. His family were farmers and educators who expanded into the business world but John was his own unique entity – “a combination of Noel Coward and the Great Gatsby”. His passions were Art, Music and Theology. He flourished in his endeavors in interior design and historical art consultation. He could play by ear any song requested and did so with full gusto when and where ever a piano was present.

His studies included parochial training from elementary through university with extended studies in Maryland, Paris, London and Rome (in Latin only). He expanded his education and talents through his extensive travels throughout South America, Russia, Europe and East Asia and with foreign stays in Australia, Bali, England, France and Portugal.

("quotes" are collective contributions of family and friends...)

John was a dynamic and dashing man, the “toast of San Francisco society in the 70’s and 80’s before he spread his magic to Paris and other faraway places”. In the 90’s, “the man of fashion, became the man of the cloth” when he became a devoted and dedicated priest in the Society of the Most Holy Trinity (SOLT) sharing the Love of God.

Before and after being ordained, when Fr. John walked into the room, - “the lights went on, the band struck up the music and a whirlwind of banter, humor and outrageous stories unfurled.” His "larger than life charisma" allowed him to use his gifts to touch many lives in profound ways. After several short ministries in the United States, Fr John transferred to Fatima, Portugal to devote his life to pilgrims there. After his retirement, he continued his ministry by hosting international pilgrims to Fatima in his beloved Casa Alta Royal Lodge. With his intrepid soul he could hold a kind & compassionate space for any pilgrim on their journey. John learned to serve God in ways he could best, given his talents and gifts. His many friends in all walks of life extending across the globe have been touched by his kindness, passion and his “Joie de Vivre”. His was a life well lived and enjoyed to the fullest.

As we reflect on John’s life, we see a man for all seasons – a classic of all times - who leaves with us lessons upon which we can grow.

"Embrace Love: Be brave and take up the noble quest to open your heart and good humor to the next adventure and to each and every spirit that awaits your invitation.
Embrace Life: Be a source of synergy – lead with a wit and a wink and above all, JOY! In a world that insists on the tidy efficiency of a 4/4 march, find the delight in a ¾ waltz.
Embrace God: Seek His Grace within the blessings of timeless Beauty, seize the transcendent inspiration of momentary miracles and always dance with the Divine."

And if in John’s humanity he left lessons unlearned, then perhaps it’s up to us who love him to pick up the candle he left and carry it forward.

Fr John is survived by his brothers David (Arlene), Mark (Melody), Richard (Jeanne) and sisters Linda and Marialisa Delmare (John). His life will continue to amaze his remaining 12 cousins, 34 nieces and nephews, and 62 greats and godchildren. He is predeceased by his parents and brother, Paul Mariani III.

With respect to current COVID conditions, The Mariani Family regrets Fr. John’s services and burial will be held privately in Davis, Calif. on September 11, 2020. He will be blessed if you join with his siblings in spirit with joyous thoughts and prayers.

We invite you to find additional information, celebrate his life and share your reflections on his Facebook pages “John Mariani” and “Casa Alta Royal Lodge”.

“I remember meeting your brother, John, just once…he entered the room dressed elegantly, and I recall holding my breath while I waited for him to say something. He no doubt did, though I cannot recall what he said, but I knew I was in the presence of someone special – different in kind from all the people I had ever known or would probably ever know.” That was our John!

For 20 years, Fr. John was blessed with the devotion of a faithful and earthly guardian angel, Valentina. Fr. John’s siblings suggest and gratefully appreciate supporting Valentina with a contribution to the Rev John Guilbert Mariani Memorial Fund for Retired Priests and their Caregivers. Electronic Contributions (Venmo): lindamariani@gmail.com. Checks payable to: Linda Jane Mariani. Send to: Christine Gieseke, 500 Crocker Drive, Vacaville, CA 95688.

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