Norman James Giacotto

Norman James Giacotto was born in San Francisco on December 14th, 1933, to Itallian immigrants Margerita and Candido Giacotto. The youngest of seven siblings, Norm grew up in the Giacotto family home on Portrero Hill. From a young age, Norm was noted for his adventurous spirit, one that would lead him through a two-year stint in the Army during the Korean War, a love of flying and airplanes, and an eventual career in the Fire Service.

As a young man, Norm moved to the coast where he met and married Sharon Parks. The couple settled in Half Moon Bay and had two sons, Kenneth and Steven. Norm worked as a police officer for the city of Half Moon Bay for three years followed by the Half Moon Bay Fire Protection District for 27 years where he served as the Fire Marshall.

Highly principled and headstrong, Norm lived life by his own terms and forged many close friendships in the coastside community he loved and served. A coffee shop regular, Norm could often be found enjoying a cup of coffee and a good laugh or story with a group of fellow longtime locals. A dedicated husband, father, and grandfather, Norm could always be relied upon to offer life wisdom and advice.

Norm passed away peacefully at home on the evening of February 17th, 2024, joining Sharon, his wife of over 49 years, who preceded him in death. He is survived by his sons, Kenneth and Steven, his daughter-in-law, Michelle, and his two grandsons, Gabriel and Gavin.

A private service for family and friends will be held on Friday, March 1st, at the Itallian Cemetary in Colma. 

“That man is a success—who has lived well, laughed often and loved much; who has gained the respect of intelligent men and the love of children; who has filled his niche and accomplished his task; who leaves the world better than he found it; who has never lacked appreciation of earth’s beauty or failed to express it; who looked for the best in others and gave the best he had.”- Unknown