NORTH HOLLYWOOD, CA — Surrounded by family and friends in his home, Giambattista (John B.) Pace of Globe Marble & Tile, Inc. died after a brave battle with cancer at the age of 70. He was most proud of his family and is survived by his wife, five children, eight grandchildren, brother and sister.

Born in Dragonetti, a small town in the Provence of Potenza in the Basilicata region of Southern Italy, he emigrated to the U.S. after falling in love and marrying his wife of 46 years. He maintained a strong bond and love for his roots in Italy while establishing new roots as an American.

In 1977, Pace founded Globe Marble & Tile, Inc. in North Hollywood, CA, and soon became one of the largest importers of marble, granite and natural stone on the West Coast.

He spent his retirement years with wife, visiting Italy, enjoying family and being a best friend to his grandchildren.