Charles “Jack” Giacomini
OBITUARY
Charles “Jack” Giacomini, a respected leader in the San Diego hospitality industry, devoted husband, beloved father and grandfather, and a man whose life was defined by hard work, unwavering loyalty, and an extraordinary love for his family, passed away peacefully on October 8, 2026, at the age of 85.
Born in Cuernavaca, Mexico, to a family of hoteliers, Jack moved to Chicago with his mother at the age of four. From an early age, he was shaped by the values that would guide him throughout his life: determination, integrity, a strong work ethic, and a deep appreciation for family. In 1962, he followed his sweetheart, Sheila, and her family to Rancho Santa Fe, California, beginning a new chapter in the place he would call home for the rest of his life.
Jack began his career in hospitality as a bellman at Del Webb’s Ocean House on Mission Bay. Through years of dedication and a commitment to excellence, he built a distinguished career and became a foundational figure in the San Diego hospitality industry. His leadership included roles as Vice President and General Manager for Hilton Hotels and Chief Operating Officer of Atlas Hotels before he founded Hotel Managers Group (HMG Hospitality). Jack approached his work with determination and integrity, meeting challenges with an unwavering resolve to get the job done.
Jack was deeply committed to supporting local first responders and giving back to the community he loved. He served honorably on the Board of Directors for the Rancho Santa Fe Fire Foundation and was an active, longtime member of the San Diego County Honorary Deputy Sheriffs’ Association (HDSA) since 1980. A proud patriot who loved America, Jack held a deep respect for those who dedicated themselves to serving and protecting others.
Jack had a lifelong love of sports, especially Notre Dame football (Go Irish!), and was an avid outdoor enthusiast who loved to run, having completed multiple marathons.
Above all else, Jack was a family man. His greatest pride and happiness came from the people he loved, and his devotion to his family never wavered. He was fiercely loyal, endlessly supportive, and the kind of man his family could always count on. He adored his wife, Sheila, his sweetheart and the love of his life, with whom he shared 62 years of marriage. Their love was one of the great constants of his life, and he cherished the life they built together. For Jack, family was never simply one part of his life; it was at the center of everything.
Jack is survived by his beloved wife, Sheila; his daughters, Lisa Giacomini, Cathy Giacomini, and Tricia Downey (husband Derek); and his six cherished grandchildren, Natalie Lepley (husband Ben), Jack Downey, James Downey, Georgie Downey, Vaughn Giacomini, and Tallula McDonald.
Jack’s greatest legacy is the love he gave and the family he cherished. Though he will be deeply missed, the example he set and the love he shared will live on in the generations who were fortunate enough to call him husband, Dad, and Papa.
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In accordance with Jack’s wishes, no formal services will be held.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to Father Joe’s Villages (neighbor.org) or the Jacobs & Cushman San Diego Food Bank. (sandiegofoodbank.org)