Emmett G. Griffin Obituary - Visitation & Funeral Information

Emmett G. Griffin (Griff) died as he lived, with grace and dignity, at home on Dec 9, 2015 at the age of 89. Son of Irish immigrants, Emmett was born in San Francisco. He grew up in the Richmond District, attended St. Monica's Catholic School, St. Ignatius High School and the University of San Francisco. At the age of seventeen, he enlisted in the U.S. Coast Guard, proudly serving his country as a signalman during WWII. Emmett met Noni while she was a student nurse at St Mary’s Hospital in San Francisco. It was love at first sight. With great joy and fond memories, they celebrated their 65th anniversary in October of this year. He had a long and distinguished career with Farmers Insurance Group and its subsidiary companies. Beginning as an adjuster, he retired as a president. Emmett’s career afforded him and Noni the opportunity to travel to many business conventions, which piqued their interest and they continued their travels personally for many years to come. Emmett had a great talent for public speaking. He was a member of Toastmasters early in his career and for many years was the master of ceremonies at a variety of events. Known for his tremendous sense of humor and great wit, his opening remarks would often get a big laugh from the audience. Throughout his life and especially in retirement, Emmett was very generous with his time and skills. Among the organizations that he contributed his time to were: Justin-Siena High School, Vine Village, CYO, Napa County Sheriff Department, AARP Tax Preparation Program, St Vincent DePaul, Special Olympics, On My Own, Catholic Charities Holiday Assistance Program, Napa Track Club, St. Apollinaris Catholic Church and many more. Emmett also enjoyed writing and was known for his thoughtful and beautifully written letters to the editor of the Napa Register, including his poignant last letter published on September 30th. Emmett was always very proud of all of his children, grandchildren and great-grandson. He enthusiastically enjoyed watching them participate in all of their activities over the years, always providing guidance, support and great love to each of them. In sum, he was a grand and lovely man. Emmett was predeceased by his parents, Patrick and Catherine Griffin, his brother, John Griffin, and his sister Catherine (Kay) McAdam. He is survived by his wife Winona (Noni) and children, Robert Griffin (Lucy), Thomas Griffin (Kelly), Susan Bicais (Jim), Paul Griffin (JoAnne) Jean Griffin, and his sister Barbara (Bobbie) Bollier, grandchildren: Benjamin Bicais, Jacqueline Bicais Toettcher (Jared), Kathryn Griffin, Kelsey Griffin, Lindsey Griffin, Hayley Griffin, Gillian Griffin, and great grandson Henry Toettcher. The family would like to thank Kaiser Hospice and in particular Jennifer, Frances and Darryl for their compassionate care of Dad during his final months. A funeral mass will be held on Saturday, December 19 at 10:30 AM at St. Apollinaris Catholic Church, 3700 Lassen St, Napa. Private burial at Sacramento Valley Memorial Cemetery. Contributions in Emmett’s memory may be made payable to St. Vincent DePaul Society, c/o St. Apollinaris Catholic Church, 3700 Lassen Street, Napa, CA 94558 or Developmentally Disabled Christian Ministries of Napa County, P.O. Box 5131, Napa, CA 94581.

Emmett G. Griffin

October 25, 1926 - December 9, 2015

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Emmett G. Griffin

October 25, 1926 - December 9, 2015

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