Virginio M. Cortez

Virginio M. Cortez, beloved Husband, Father, Grandfather, Brother, Brother-in-Law, Tio, Friend and proud Vietnam Veteran of the United States Marine Corps, sadly was taken from this world on July 20th, 2024, after spending a wonderful 77 years spreading joy, love, and happiness to everyone he encountered.

The son of Juan and Guadalupe Cortez, Virginio was born August 15th, 1946, in Jalisco, Mexico and immigrated to San Jose, CA at the age of 11 with his parents and two younger siblings. He would later help welcome eleven more siblings that he loved and adored, after arriving in the United States. He spent his early years making adobe bricks on the ranch in Mexico, helping provide for his family by working in the fields and orchards while in high school, and being a great example for his younger siblings. He graduated from W.C. Overfelt High School in 1966 and was accepted into the University of Santa Clara. Instead of enrolling in the University, Virginio voluntarily enlisted in the Marines and tested into the Communications specialty. He received various awards and recognition out of boot camp and throughout his service such as: the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal with device, Rifle Expert Badge, and Vietnam Service Medal with four stars, and Good Conduct Medal Award. He greatly valued his time in the Marines and wanted to make a career out of his service, however, he mentioned having a family and being present for them was more important. He was honorably discharged as a Sergeant in 1969 and stayed in the reserves for an additional year. He gained valuable training during his time in the Marines, which allowed for him to obtain a career at the Telephone Company from which he retired after 37 years of service, in 2007.

Virginio was an avid sports fan, who loved the San Francisco 49ers, Giants, and the Warriors. On his 69th birthday a new love was unlocked which was his passion for running 5ks with people he loved. This led him to become an enthusiastic member of the racing community, participating in races nearly every weekend with his beloved family. When he wasn’t spending time with his family, he could be found sitting outside in his robe with his dog and cats, enjoying a cup of coffee, a new book, and the warm sunshine on his face. He loved being retired which made time for gardening, yard work, and being readily available to help his family with whatever they needed.

Virginio’s passing leaves a massive void in the lives of his family, friends, and the many people he touched in his lifetime. His genuine smile and witty sense of humor lit up the room and his immeasurable warmth and kindness left an unforgettable mark on anyone who was fortunate enough to know him. Virginio radiated generosity and compassion, lending a helping hand and support to his loved ones is what brought him joy. Virginio was a faithful member of Our Lady of Refuge Church. His legacy of love, wisdom, dedication, and integrity will forever resonate in the hearts of those who knew him.

Virginio is survived by his wife Rosalinda Gonzalez-Cortez of San Jose; son, Alfredo G. Cortez and wife Sara Cortez of Monterey; son, Jose J. Cortez and wife Connie M. Cortez of Prunedale; daughter, Krystal Cortez of Spreckels; grandchildren, Aliya, Jacob, Amaya, Haylie, Levi, Kailer, and Izabella; brother, Gil Cortez and Maria of Hayward; sister, Margarita Espinosa and husband Manuel of Santa Clara; brother, Ruben Cortez of Arizona; sister; Alicia Cortez and husband Armando of Morgan Hill; brother, John Cortez and wife Sophia of Los Angeles; brother, Manuel Cortez and wife Mirtha of San Leandro; sister, Rosina Castellano and Rey of San Jose; Sara Cortez of Arizona; sister, Sylvia Gutierrez and husband Juan of Arizona; brother, Miguel Cortez and wife Sherri of San Jose; brother, Javier of Arizona; brother, Jose Cortez and wife Maria Elena of San Jose, and brother, Ricardo Cortez and wife Linda of San Jose, and fourteen nephews, four nieces, three great-nephews and one-great niece on the way. He was the patriarch to the Cortez family and hero to many. Virginio will be dearly missed but his legacy will live on through his family.

Funeral Services:

Rosary and Remembrance:

Monday, August 12, 2024, 4:00-7:00pm Mission Mortuary 450 El Camino El Estero Monterey, CA

Holy Mass:

Tuesday, August 13, 2024, 09:00am Our Lady of Refuge Church 11140 Preston St. Castroville, CA

Private Family Burial

Celebration of Life:

Tuesday, August 13, 2024, 12:00-4:00pm Castroville Community Center11261 Crane St. Castroville, CA