Borello, John

John Borello, born in Torino, Piemonte, Italy, on January 17, 1861, was the son of Andrew and Margarita Borello. He received a good education in the public schools of his native land before immigrating to Fresno, California, in 1886 to join his brother Frank. To quickly adapt to his new home, John used his earnings to study English and mathematics under a private teacher for over two years. He worked diligently for his brother for a decade before purchasing a half interest in the family soda and soft drink manufacturing business. After Frank passed away in May 1912, John succeeded him as the president of Borello Brothers Company, Inc.

Under his leadership, the company built a modern, fireproof manufacturing plant located at 1235 G Street that specialized in sodas and fountain supplies. His dedication to order and cleanliness earned the business silver medals at both the Panama Pacific Exposition in San Francisco and the Panama-California Exposition in San Diego. In his personal life, John married Eugenia Cebrelli on July 15, 1893, and together they raised four children named Clara, Andrew, Mary J., and Frank. As a naturalized citizen who voted with the Democratic party, he maintained strong community ties through his membership in the Chamber of Commerce and the Merchants Association. His industrious career and civic engagement established him as a highly respected and progressive citizen of Fresno.