In Memory

Warren 'Sam' Gannon - Class Of 1944

Warren 'Sam' Gannon

Warren Gannon passed away peacefully at home on July 21, 2019 in San Jose with his wife of 52 years by his side. He was 92. Warren was a devoted husband to Beverly and father to David and Patrick, loving father-in-law to Kristin and Tammy, and was beloved by his grandsons Tucker and Cole. Warren is also survived by his loving sister Margaret (SPHS '50), sister-in-law Barbara and many nieces and nephews whom he loved dearly.

Warren was born on November 18, 1926 in Cleveland, Ohio to Joseph and Floy Gannon. He attended South Pasadena High School where he was Senior Class President. A World War II Veteran, Warren joined the Navy after he graduated from high school. He departed for basic training in Chicago, Illinois and was assigned to a destroyer and participated in the Battle of Okinawa. He was in Tokyo Bay when the Armistice with Japan was signed and traveled on the Peace Fleet mission around the world. When he returned to California he attended Occidental College and he received his Masters degree in Business from Stanford University.

Warren had a long and distinguished career in the printing and publishing industry. He headed the HM Gousha Company, a Times Mirror map and travel printing subsidiary in San Jose. He held the position of Vice President, Marketing and Sales for the Times Mirror Press printing company in Los Angeles, and he served in the position of Director, Printing Sales, for GTE Directories.

Warren was extremely dedicated to each community in which he lived. He was president of San Jose Chamber of Commerce where he worked closely with Norman Minneta while he was mayor of San Jose. Warren and his family moved to La Canada Flintridge in 1975. During his time in Southern California, he was elected to the La Canada School Board and served on the Planning Commission. All while maintaining a successful career and family life. In recognition of all his civil service Warren was named 'La Canadan of the Year' in 1991.

After retiring, Warren and Beverly returned to San Jose where he volunteered for the Friends of the San Jose Rose Garden, and was president of the Senior Citizens Commission for Santa Clara County.

Warren has been described by those that knew him as the most positive, optimistic and energetic man in the world. He will be sorely missed by all.