Secondo John Colomero 1925-2008

Secondo was born in Upland, California on October 2nd 1925. The son of John Battista and Enes Strona Colombero, Secondo watched as the first automobile drove down Etiwanda Ave and thus began his life long love of all motor vehicles. His family were farmers and had a winery and grape ranch. He grew up on the ranch in a large Italian family with wonderful food and Italian traditions. He lived through the great depression, prohibition and the second world war. At the age of 17 Secondo enlisted in the Coast Guard and went to sea. His experience in Normandy influenced the rest of his life. He was a fireman 1st Class and “served with honor” in the Landing craft Infantry NO 94. On D day and the days following he made 7 landings on Omaha beach, for which he received bronze and silver stars. He served in both the Atlantic and Pacific Theatres of war.

In 1947 Secondo married his high school sweetheart, Dona Cox. They lived on the family ranch until 1968 when he retired as Vice-President of sales from Owl Service Rock. During this time he had an opportunity to race cars and motorcycles at an amateur level with great success. Then he and Dona fulfilled their lifetime dream and moved to Balboa. Secondo had many hobbies; collecting antiques, motorcycles, cars and boats. He especially loved his classic Dino Ferrari.

Secondo was very involved with his children Angela Hansen and Gloria Speigle and their families; traveling several times a year up to Shasta and Humbolt counties and enjoying the drive through California farm country. His last trip was in February to San Fransisco, where the family celebrated the fact that Angela had scanned clean one year after her cancer surgery.

His wife of 60 years, Dona, Angela and husband Joe Hansen and Gloria and husband Ron Speigle and their extended families survive Secondo. Three siblings predeceased him including his beloved brother John and adored sister Connie Colombero Ashton. Eleven loving nieces and nephews and their spouses and children also survive him. He also leaves his friend, Bill Austin, whom he shared many life events in racing and travel for over 40 years. This last year was a tough one for Secondo, while suffering through several health problems. He passed away February 29th, 2008 MAY HE REST IN PEACE