Adolph Foiada

Adolph FoiadaResident of San Jose It is with great sadness that the Foiada family announces the passing of our beloved father, Adolph. He departed peacefully on February 3, 2011 at the age of 103. He was predeceased by his wife of 73 years, Theresa, and leaves behind his son Dale Foiada, daughter Carol Corcoran, son in law Tim Corcoran, grandchildren Jeremy and Nicholas Foiada, Christie, Colleen and Jacquelyn Corcoran, as well as his sister, Pierina Pura. Son to the late Albino & Candida Foiada, brother to the late Celio Foiada & Irma Giuliani. Adolph was born in Cugnasco (Ticino), Swizerland on January 29, 1908. He immigrated to California at the age of 17, boarded at the Italian Hotel, & began sharpening knives with his father in downtown San Jose. Seven years later, he started his own business on Post Street, San Jose Cutlery. In 1942 he expanded, creating Valley Saw Works on Santa Clara Street, manufacturing his own products for the valley's orchard community.Adolph enjoyed life to the fullest. He loved to entertain his family & friends with his accordion. He could often be seen surrounded by his fellow countrymen singing nostalgic songs of their homeland at the many clubs & events he loved so well-the Piemonte Club, ProTicino, Swiss Athletic Club, Swiss Rifle Club,YMI, & the Elks.For the last 40 years, Adolph produced & bottled wine under his own private label. Many think this was the secret to his longevity!Adolph never abandoned his love for his roots. His Family trips home to Cugnasco were the highpoint of his life. He never lost his Swiss accent nor his love for the traditional foods. His specialty was polenta & stew on Sundays. Even the home he designed & built in the East foothills overlooking the valley reflected his swiss heritage.Everyone who met Adolph was inspired by his love & touched by his gentle spirit.Family & friends are invited to attend a Rosary on Monday, February 7, 2011 at 6 pm at Chapel of Flowers, 900 South Second Street, San Jose, & a Memorial Mass on Tuesday, February 8 at 10 a.m. at St. Brother Albert Roman Catholic Church, 10250 Clayton Rd., San Jose 95127. Burial to follow at Santa Clara Mission Cemetery.