Edwin John Genasci

Edwin John Genasci went home to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on November 4, 2023, ten days shy of his 78th birthday. Born on November 14, 1945 to John and Thelma Genasci, Edwin embraced a life dedicated to dairy farming, following in the footsteps of his father and uncle Oscar. He was a partner in the family farm with his cousins Bill and Jim at the Genasci Brother’s Dairy for over 60 years. 

A Fresno State University graduate with a bachelor’s degree in dairy & agricultural studies, Edwin was awarded as an “Outstanding Dairy Student.” His active university years included leadership roles in the Fresno State Dairy judging team and Alpha Gamma Rho Agriculture Fraternity, where he served as Chapter President. Edwin’s life extended beyond the farm, as he engaged in various leadership roles in organizations like Future Farmers of America, Modesto Junior College, 4-H, Brown Swiss Association, Ag One, Holstein Association, and the Stanislaus County Swiss Club, among many more. His dedication also took him to Italy with World Wide Sires, promoting the Brown Swiss Breed and reconnecting with his Swiss-Italian relatives. Hobbies included fast pitch softball and showing cattle.

Despite his many awards and titles, the proudest title he held was that of "Papa Moo,'' which his grandchildren endearingly called him.  Papa Moo loved his grandchildren dearly and found great joy in watching them participate in their various sports activities. Edwin faithfully attended church and enjoyed attending the men's bible study.

Edwin is survived by his wife of 50 years, Della, and their daughters Dena Genasci, Andrea Glass (Chad), and Erica Jones (Paul).  He had four grandchildren, Hunter and Ashley Glass, and Charlie and Lukas Jones.  He is also survived by his sister Dorothy Parker (Eldon). He was preceded in death by his parents John Genasci and Thelma (Martella), stepfather Louie Coelho, and his sister Janet Shafer (Ronnie). 

The family would like to thank the entire staff at Dale Commons for their expert loving care of dad. We would also like to express our gratitude to the staff at Community Hospice Alexander Cohen Hospice House for making dad’s passing so peaceful.

Services to celebrate Edwin’s life will be held Tuesday, November 21, 2023, at 11:30 AM at Big Valley Grace Community Church, 4040 Tully Road, Modesto, CA with a reception to follow.

In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory can be sent to either of the following:

AG One Foundation c/o Fresno State, 2910 E. Barstow Ave., M/S/ of 115, Fresno, CA 93740

Stanislaus County Swiss Club, P.O. Box 1522, Modesto, CA 95353