CHRIS BERTUCELLI: THE HEART OF WILLOW GLEN’S LA VILLA DELI AND A LEGEND WHO MADE SANDWICHES THAT WON HEARTS

Chris Bertucelli was a man who could make friends faster than you could stack salami on a roll. For years, his face was a familiar, welcoming presence at La Villa Delicatessen, the beloved Italian deli located in San Jose’s Willow Glen neighborhood. People from all walks of life knew the routine when they walked into La Villa: grab a number, get in line, and wait for their turn to chat with Chris, who would inevitably make his rounds between the deli case, the hot counter, and the kitchen where his mother, Patty, prepared the mouth-watering meals that made La Villa a staple for locals.

Chris Bertucelli’s passing this week at the age of 47 has left the Willow Glen community in mourning, as they lost not just a local entrepreneur, but a man who embodied the spirit of their neighborhood.

A Community Icon

For Chris Bertucelli, community was everything. The long lines at La Villa were a testament to his popularity, but it was his unwavering commitment to those around him that made him a true local icon. His impact extended beyond just his role as a deli owner—he was the heart of Willow Glen. Whether it was a quick hello to a regular or a deeper conversation about life, Chris had a way of making everyone feel like they were a part of his extended family.

He was known for his spirit of giving and community involvement. From hosting local events to creating signature sandwiches that became famous across sports teams, Chris Bertucelli had made a name for himself that extended far beyond the walls of La Villa.

The Legendary Chris Combo

For years, Chris Bertucelli served his signature creation: the Chris Combo. A sandwich that became the pride of La Villa, this mouth-watering combination of meats, cheeses, and Italian spices was a staple of the San Jose Sharks and San Francisco 49ers. Athletes, celebrities, and loyal customers all shared one thing in common: they craved the Chris Combo. The sandwich, made from a combination of ingredients Chris refused to disclose, quickly became the favorite of not only the local community but also prominent figures in the NHL and NFL. It was not just any sandwich—it was a piece of local legend.

The Chris Combo was more than just a meal; it represented Chris’ dedication to quality, flavor, and community. The fact that members of the San Jose Sharks and the San Francisco 49ers routinely ordered the sandwich spoke volumes about its appeal. Former players such as Mike Ricci, Joe Pavelski, Joe Thornton, and Logan Couture were often spotted enjoying the deli’s signature creation.

While the exact recipe for the sandwich remains a well-kept secret, fans who have had the pleasure of savoring it can confirm that it’s a melty amalgamation of a couple of meats, cheeses, and Italian spices that left you craving more, all packed into a soft roll that was simply irresistible.

A Sudden Loss That Shook the Community

The news of Chris Bertucelli’s sudden passing has sent shockwaves through the community. The family posted a note on the deli door, reading, “It is with profound sadness that we share with you the sudden passing of our beloved son, father, husband, and great friend.” It was a somber moment for the many customers who had spent decades coming to the deli for not only the food but for the genuine connection they shared with Chris. A floral tribute now overflows outside La Villa, a testament to the deep love the community had for him.

Longtime customers have taken to social media to share memories of Chris Bertucelli, recounting the many moments they spent with him.

“It breaks my heart,” said Janie Koumoutsakis, a customer who has been a regular at La Villa for over 50 years. “I watched Chris grow from a young boy helping his dad to a man with his own family. He always appreciated the loyalty of his customers.”

Pam Caselli Oliverio, another longtime customer, shared, “La Villa has always been a part of my life, from my mother bringing me there the day it opened, to countless family dinners and celebrations… We are all at a loss for words. He will be truly missed.”

A Legacy of Love and Community Involvement

Beyond the sandwiches and ravioli, Chris Bertucelli’s true legacy was his deep connection with the community. La Villa Delicatessen wasn’t just a business; it was a gathering place for families, friends, and neighbors.

During the height of COVID-19, La Villa adapted to the challenges, setting up an outdoor deli to continue serving its customers safely. Even in difficult times, Chris was there, making sure everyone who came through the door felt seen, heard, and cared for.

As a family-owned business, the Bertucelli family had always prioritized the quality of their food and the strength of their relationships with customers. It wasn’t just about business for Chris Bertucelli—it was about building a community that transcended the walls of La Villa.

A Tribute to a Local Legend

Willow Glen merchants and the staff at Mann’s Jewelers, another local business, have shared their memories of Chris, calling him a local celebrity and the “star of Lincoln Avenue.” His impact on the area was undeniable, with many customers recounting stories of Chris Bertucelli personally packing boxes of ravioli and sauce for them to take on their trips home, even if they had moved far away from the Bay Area.

“What Chris has done for Willow Glen is obvious in all of these messages,’” the Mann’s Jewelers staff wrote on social media. “He truly was a celebrity and the star of Lincoln Avenue.”

The Bertucelli family’s commitment to their community was evident in every dish they served, from their famous ravioli to the sandwiches that became a local and sports legend. Chris Bertucelli was not just the man behind the counter; he was the heart of a neighborhood that is now grieving his untimely loss.

The Impact of Chris Bertucelli: Remembering a True Community Figure

Chris Bertucelli’s passing marks the end of an era for La Villa Delicatessen and for the Willow Glen neighborhood as a whole. As his family, friends, and the community process this tragic loss, they will continue to carry on his legacy by remembering the man who created not just sandwiches, but lasting memories that touched the hearts of so many.

While details regarding memorial plans have not yet been publicly announced by the family, it is clear that Chris Bertucelli will always be remembered not just as a deli owner, but as a pillar of the Willow Glen community, a beloved father, a dedicated husband, and a true friend to all who knew him.

Chris Bertucelli’s legacy will live on through the sandwiches, the ravioli, and the heartfelt connections he made with everyone who walked through the door of La Villa. His impact will continue to resonate in the community for many years to come.