JOSEPH A. FARINA
Westwood Properties, Inc.
Joseph A. Farina studied at the University of California Berkeley and the California State University Fresno where he graduated in 1956. Joe worked in all phases of construction including field, design, estimating and administrative work while in college and prior to entering the U. S. Air Force. He was honorably discharged in 1960.
Mr. Farina formed a partnership with his father that same year, and in 1961, Westwood Properties, Inc., a California corporation was born. A licensed general building contractor, Joe was a second-generation builder serving as President of Westwood Properties, Inc., and owner/broker for J. A. Farina Real Estate, Inc. in Fresno, California.
More importantly, was Joe's dedication to the industry which provided his livelihood. During the years of 1963, 1969 and 1975, he was the President of the Building Industry Association of San Joaquin Valley and was a Life Director. He served on the California State University, Fresno, Industrial Technology Board, and the Fresno City College Development Board.
In 1987, Joe was the President of the California Building Industry Association and throughout his tenure with the state association, served on numerous committees including being Chairman of the Legislative Committee, Chairman of the Agriculture Lands Mapping Committee, and stints as a voting member of the Urban Strategy Committee, Energy Committee, Warranty/Consumer Affairs Committee, and the Insurance Committee.
While at the California Building Industry Association, Joe was instrumental in guiding the organization through a re-evaluation of the organization's goals, objectives and structure --a legacy that lives on in his memory. On the national level, Joe served as a Director to the National Association of Home Builders from 1978 through 1982. He was a member of the Life Spike Club and served on a special task force to review and rewrite the HUD Minimum Property Standards.
Joseph A. Farina passed away on April 7, 1989, after a long battle with cancer. He was 53. He is survived by his wife, Constance, two children and three stepchildren.
