George Pernicano

Who is George Pernicano?

George Pernicano along with Barron Hilton and other prominent San Diegans, brought the Chargers to San Diego from Los Angeles in 1961. He originally owned 7% of the team, but currently retains 3%. On Sept 8, 1996, he was inducted into the Chargers' Hall of Fame. Pernicano has attended every home game in 48 years and has only missed 2 away games, one for his grandson's wedding and one recently due to health issues. He introduced San Diego to pizza in 1946.

In 1960, he opened Casa di Baffi in San Diego's Hillcrest neighborhood. It closed in the early 80's and remains vacant. City officials and neighboring business have expressed frustration over Pernicano's refusal to sell or redevelop the property.