In Memory

Carl J Genova - Class Of 1957

Carl Genova

June 22, 1938 - August 4, 2024

Carl Joseph Genova, age 86, was a strong and stoic man in all he did. He was a proud father, grandfather and husband, always putting his family first. Though his emotions were often guarded, his love for his family shone through in everything he did and in conversations with friends.

Born and raised in Pasadena, Carl always spoke fondly of his hometown, calling it 'the land of milk and honey'. He regaled us with tales of watching the Rose Bowl Parade from Colorado Boulevard which was an easy walk from where he grew up, and proudly boasted of his days playing basketball for his high school. He adored his parents and loved his childhood with his three siblings.

After serving nine years in the Air Force where he traveled the world, Carl settled near Kansas City where he raised his family of four daughters and three sons. A skilled airline mechanic, he could fix just about anything and was known for his ability to identify aircraft just by the sound of their engines flying high above. His trade eventually led him to Las Vegas where he lived with his beloved wife, Delores, for nearly 40 years.

An active man, Carl loved playing racquetball and golf, and indulging in his favorite treat, ice cream. He had a deep appreciation for history and sports and cherished his Italian heritage above all else. He rarely took a vacation that didn't involve a visit to cousins, aunts and uncles, parents or sister and brothers. He relished dining al fresco, afternoons in the pools and teaching his kids and grandkids how to swim and dive.

But perhaps Carl's greatest legacy is the love he had for his family and the pride he took in watching his children and grandchildren grow and succeed. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him, but his spirit will live on in the countless memories he leaves behind.

Carl is survived by his wife, Delores Genova; his children:  Cathleen (Tim) Roby, Carl (Mia) Genova II, Paul (Gretchen) Genova, Steve (Jennifer) Genova, Andrea (Steve) Boe, and Jennifer Wilson. Siblings:  Frank (Lily) Genova and John (Nancy) Genova '63; 16 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his beloved daughter, Nicole Genova; sister Kay Genova Jones '54, and parents Charles and Jennie Genova.

Rest in peace, Carl, knowing that your legacy of strength, love, and pride in family will never be forgotten.

Dignity Memorial, August 2024