By Stephanie Weldy

A service is set for Monday for Romano Della Santina — a longtime owner of Marin Joe's who'd been with the restaurant since its 1954 inception. Mr. Della Santina, a 61-year Marin County resident, died July 9 from a heart attack. The San Rafael was 86. His wife of 65 years, Maria, and other family members were at his side.

Mr. Della Santina's sons, Paul, 63, and Ralph, 54 — both co-owners of Marin Joe's — said the Italian restaurant with its signature open kitchen was largely their father's life, along with his family and gardening. He always made a point to greet customers and never denied anyone a plate of food — whether or not they could pay for it, Paul Della Santina said.

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Source: http://www.marinij.com/