Mr Gary James Oberti

Gary James Oberti, known fondly as Gary, was born on the 2nd day of June in the year of our Lord 1941, and passed on to his eternal rest on the 14th day of July, 2023. He was a life-long resident of Madera, California, where he was both born and passed away following a period of declining health.

Gary was a graduate of the Class of 1959 of Madera High School who furthered his education at Fresno City College, Fresno State College, and the Armstrong College of Business in Berkeley. There, he served on the student council and was a proud member of Kappa Sigma Gamma Fraternity.

He was a man of service, having served in the United States Coast Guard Reserves for 7 years. His work ethic, instilled in him at an early age by his father James and uncles Frank and Adolph Oberti at the Oberti Olive Co., led him to a 40-year career where he climbed from humble beginnings to the position of CEO, as well as Senior Vice President of Tri-Valley Growers. In the late 1990’s he and brother Stan started farming various wine grape crops together as well as almonds now being carried on by the next generation of the Oberti Family. Despite his achievements, he considered himself "just a small cog in the wheel of life" and was recognized by former Governor and President Ronald Reagan, and Speaker of the House, Tip O'Neill for his contributions to the Olive Industry. His service extended to the St. Agnes Hospital Foundation Board, Vino Fino Ambassador, Foodsters, and Allied Foods Institute just to name a few. A pillar of the Madera Community, he was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Madera Chamber of Commerce. He had a lifelong relationship with the parish of St. Joachim Catholic Church where he and Mary were married.

Beyond his many professional accolades, Gary was a man of creativity and vision. He designed and built his home in a neighborhood he lovingly referred to as the Evergreen Place Gang, who spent many enjoyable times together, especially attending the Reno Air Shows. A testament to his belief in not just neighbors, but friends.

A man of sterling character, Gary was best described as kind, generous, and selfless. He was a man who thought of the rights and feelings of others rather than his own, a virtue that shone brightly in every aspect of his life.

In the words of the Bard himself, "All the world’s a stage, and all the men and women merely players; they have their exits and their entrances." Gary Oberti played many parts in his life - a loving husband, a devoted father, a tireless worker, a loyal friend. As he makes his final exit, let it be said that he played each part with great love and dedication, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, generosity, and selflessness. His life was a play well performed, and he will be remembered fondly by all who had the privilege of sharing the stage with him.

Gary was a man of great heart, beloved by his family and esteemed by all who knew him. His loving wife of 59 years, Mary Schoettler Oberti, stood by his side, as did their children: Theresa of Arroyo Grande, CA, and her three daughters; Alexandra, Giana, and Julia, Susan (Scott) McCue of Chowchilla, CA, and their 4 children: Marissa, Shea, Sean, and Hope, and Jimmy Oberti, also from Chowchilla, and his 4 children: Mariana, Ava, Jenna, and Zackery. He was also survived by his brother Stan (Lynda) Oberti. Moreover, sisters-in-law: Ila, Ellouise, and Caroline Schoettler, as well as numerous nieces and nephews, held Gary dear in their hearts. He was reunited in death with his parents James and Adeline Cerioni Oberti; in-laws Harold and Loretta Schoettler, brothers-in-law: Thomas, Jim, Harold, and David, sisters-in-law Judy Richards and Dwynn Schoettler.


Special thanks to Bristol Hospice, especially Marcela V who took amazing care of Gary the last 2 weeks of his life. Thank you Being-Well for assisting him in his last days. For all those who came to see him in his last days and for all those who have reached out through phone calls, food, flowers and cards, Thank you!

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, August 2, 2023 from 2 PM to 6 PM at Jay Chapel in Madera.

Recitation of the Rosary will be on Thursday, August 3, 2023 at 9:30 AM at St. Joachim Catholic Church in Madera followed by the Funeral Mass at 10 AM. Entombment at Calvary Cemetery Mausoleum will be private for family members.

The family has suggested that remembrances in Gary’s memory be sent to St. Joachim Catholic Church, Bristol Hospice or the Nazareth House of Fresno.