Chris Bertuccelli Obituary SAN JOSE, CA — The San Jose community is grieving the sudden and unexpected passing of Chris Bertuccelli, a cherished local resident and long-time co-owner of Bertucelli’s La Villa Deli, whose death has left family, friends, and customers in deep sorrow.
Bertuccelli was widely known not just as a local business owner but as a warm, generous, and beloved member of the Willow Glen and broader San Jose community. Through his work at the iconic La Villa Gourmet Italian Delicatessen, Chris helped make the deli a cornerstone of the neighborhood — a place filled with familiar faces, shared meals, and welcoming hospitality.
Born and raised in the area, Chris was deeply rooted in the community. He studied at San Jose State University and later became an integral part of his family’s business — a tradition of authentic Italian cuisine and community connection that stretched back generations.
Friends and longtime patrons remember Chris for his kindness, genuine smile, and the personal touch he brought to every interaction. Whether serving up his signature dishes, sharing stories with customers, or supporting local events, he was a familiar and uplifting presence. Online tributes from local residents describe him as friendly, welcoming, and someone who made people feel valued — not just as customers but as friends.
Chris’s influence extended beyond the kitchen. He was known for delivering meals to community members, supporting local sports teams, and building relationships that went far beyond business transactions. His personality and warmth made La Villa more than a deli — it was a place filled with community spirit and shared memories.
Bertucelli’s La Villa Deli announced that it would remain closed for the rest of the week as family, friends, and loved ones gather to mourn and celebrate Chris’s life. The heartfelt message from those close to him emphasized the profound impact he had on the lives of so many.
Details surrounding Chris Bertuccelli’s passing have not been released publicly, and his family has asked for privacy during this difficult time. Plans for memorial services and opportunities for the community to pay their respects are expected to be announced in the days ahead.
Chris Bertuccelli’s legacy — marked by his devotion to family, his generosity, and his vibrant presence in the San Jose community — will be remembered by all who knew him well and by the many lives he touched through his kindness, friendship, and welcoming spirit.