Richard Raymond Corona passed away on Saturday, February 6, 2010 at the young age of 59.
A native of Gilroy, Richard was born on December 13, 1950, to Toby and Helen Corona. He attended local grammar schools and was a graduate of the Gilroy High School Class of 1969. After high school, Richard entered into the United States Army and served from 1969 until 1972. It was during his time in the Army that he met and married the love of his life, Joanne (Jody). After many odd jobs and on a challenge from his mother, Richard cut his hair, tossed out his flip-flops and entered the California Highway Patrol Academy. He served as one of California’s finest for 24 years until his retirement in 2006.
Not only was Richard the world to Joanne for 37 years, but he was “the Rock” to his three sons, Luke, Matt and Richard; and “Papa” to his four grandchildren, Madison, Hayden, Logan and Finley. Not one for fanfare, Richard found happiness in the simple things: a hot cup of coffee or an ice cold beer and someone to share them with, camping with his family and friends, fishing for striper in the aqueducts and placing a bet at the Black Jack tables.
Richard was loved by many and will forever be missed. The best parts of him will continue to live on through his wife, children, grandchildren, family and friends. Richard is survived by his wife Joanne Corona; sons and daughters-in-law Luke and Jennifer Corona, Matthew and Melanie Corona, Richard Corona; grandchildren Madison, Hayden, Logan and Finley Corona; brothers and sister-in-law Jack and Lupe Corona, Ted Corona; sisters and brother-in-law Frances and Frank Coelho, Nancy Blum; nephews and nieces Chris, Damien, David and John Corona, Julie Coelho, Savannah, Lorna and Dalton Blum; along with many aunts, uncles, cousins and extended family. Richard was preceded in death by his parents Octavio “Toby” Corona and Fairy Helen “Gram” Corona.
A viewing will be held on Tuesday, February 9, 2010 from 5:00 P.M. until 9:00 P.M. with a Vigil beginning at 7:00 P.M. at Habing Family Funeral Home, 129 Fourth Street, Gilroy, CA. Funeral Services will begin at Habing Family Funeral Home at 9:00 A.M. and proceed to St. Mary Church at 10:00 A.M. on Wednesday, February 10, 2010. Burial will follow at St. Mary Cemetery in Gilroy.
Donations would be welcomed to the California Highway Patrol Widows and Orphans Fund c/o The El Camino Squad Club, 740 Renz Lane, Gilroy, CA 95020.
On-line condolences are welcomed at www.habingfamilyfuneralhome.com.
