JOSEPH A. FARINA
Westwood Properties, Inc.
Joseph A. Farina studied at the University of California, Berkeley, and California State University, Fresno, graduating in 1956. During college and before entering the U.S. Air Force, he worked in all phases of construction, including fieldwork, design, estimating, and administrative tasks. He was honorably discharged from the Air Force in 1960.
In the same year, Mr. Farina formed a partnership with his father, and in 1961, Westwood Properties, Inc., a California corporation, was founded. A licensed general building contractor, Joe was a second-generation builder, serving as President of Westwood Properties, Inc., and as the owner/broker of J.A. Farina Real Estate, Inc., in Fresno, California.
Joe's dedication to the building industry was unwavering. He served as President of the Building Industry Association of San Joaquin Valley in 1963, 1969, and 1975, and was a Life Director. He also contributed to the California State University, Fresno, Industrial Technology Board, and Fresno City College Development Board.
In 1987, Joe became President of the California Building Industry Association. During his time with the state association, he served on several committees, including as Chairman of the Legislative Committee, Chairman of the Agriculture Lands Mapping Committee, and as a voting member of the Urban Strategy Committee, Energy Committee, Warranty/Consumer Affairs Committee, and Insurance Committee.
Joe played a key role in guiding the California Building Industry Association through a re-evaluation of its goals, objectives, and structure—a legacy that continues to inspire. On the national level, Joe served as a Director for the National Association of Home Builders from 1978 to 1982. He was also a member of the Life Spike Club and participated in a special task force to review and rewrite the HUD Minimum Property Standards.
Joseph A. Farina passed away on April 7, 1989, at the age of 53, after a courageous battle with cancer. He is survived by his loving wife, Constance, daughters Cheryl Farina-Bendian and Stephanie Farina, three stepchildren, and grandchildren Mikale Bendian and Brenton Stapleton.
