Mario John Buoni, Jr.

MARIO JOHN BUONI JR. (88)

November 8, 1935 - November 22, 2023

     Mario John Buoni Jr., a dedicated farmer who embraced life with determination and resilience, passed away on November 22, 2023, just two weeks after celebrating his 88th birthday on November 8. Born in Bakersfield, CA, in 1935, Mario was always a pillar of the Old River community.

     He vividly remembered the moment he laid eyes on Erma Centoni at the sheepman's picnic, knowing she was the one he'd spend his life with. On June 9, 1956, they married and together raised five children - Marianna, Mario III, Frank, John, and Gino.

     Mario's journey began with humble roots and a high school education. He started with very little and expanded his business to around 8,000 acres at its peak, a testament to his hard work ethic. In his youth, Mario enjoyed riding motorcycles, particularly his cherished 1949 Matchless. His love for hunting, especially deer and dove, was a passion he shared with his children and grandchildren. However, it was his deep devotion to farming that defined his existence. He tirelessly worked on the farm 7 days a week, overseeing every aspect until he was no longer physically able. His drive for farming transcended financial gain; money was merely a means to acquire more land. Mario's determination remained focused on expanding his farm, even in his later years.

     Proud of his Italian heritage and deeply connected to the small Italian farming community in Old River, Mario embraced his roots and passed on the value of family first. He enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren and took them on "15-minute" town trips that would extend into an all-day affair. Family gatherings were treasured moments, as Mario sat at the table engaging in lively conversations and gossip, or “talking business,” as he would say, with his children and grandchildren, one of his favorite pastimes.

     Mario John Buoni Jr. will be remembered for his unwavering work ethic, his love for family, and his enduring legacy as a passionate farmer and devoted patriarch.

     He is preceded in death by parents Mario and Jennie Buoni, wife Erma, daughter Patricia, daughter-in-law Michele, and granddaughter Brianna. He leaves behind his sister Cathy; children Marianna, Mario III, Frank (Lori), John (Shelly), and Gino (Christine); 11 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.

     Pallbearers: Darin Buoni, Joshua Buoni, Joey Buoni, Dominic Buoni, Anthony Buoni and Antonio Banducci.

     Honorary Pallbearers: Roy Ariggi, Sonny Chase, Les Endes, John Coombs, Jerry Taylor, Robert Rodriguez, Allen Banducci, Adam Banducci, Gary Limi, Richard Limi, Jimmy Checchi, Mark Skinner, Clark Skinner, Aldo Angoni, and Mark Costa.

     With deep gratitude, the family would like to express their heartfelt appreciation to Rosa Rosales and her family for the love and care they provided to Mario in his final months.

     Services will be held on December 11th at 9:00 AM at St. Francis of Assisi (900 H St.), with graveside to follow at Greenlawn Southwest.