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Beloved Husband, Father, and Grandfather, Julio "Gena" Contreras passed away on February 5th, 2008.
He was a lifelong resident of Claremont for the past 70 years. During this time, he attended Sycamore Elementary School and the original Claremont High School at the Old School House. While completing his studies, he was a star athlete lettering in football, baseball and track all four years. He continued his academic career by attending Cal Poly Pomona University where he was involved in student government and attained a high academic standard that led to his induction onto the Dean's list. While academics were of high regard in his life, family was his ultimate priority.
He married his high school sweetheart, Elisa "Alice" Contreras that led to a beautiful marriage of over 50 years and produced five wonderful children, Julie, Daniel, Elias, Elisa Anna "Donna" and Christopher. His appreciation for family led him to become a coach, mentor and adviser in the city of Claremont. He did this by coaching youth sports such as soccer, baseball and football, as well as counseling at risk youths for over 30 years. His involvement in the community far surpassed voluntary actions, he was a Montclair Police Officer for 10 years and eventually became a California State Peace Officer for 28 years and retired with a rank of Correctional Lieutenant.
In retirement, Mr. Contreras endured health problems that would have debilitated most, however, he still enjoyed life by traveling with his wife and family. Although these problems became increasingly severe, he never slowed down and always lived life to the fullest. Even in death, his legacy will live on and inspire those who he has touched to persevere through life's hardships, give to those who are in need, believe in the good in all, and never miss the opportunity to show someone you love just how special they are by saying the words, "I Love You." Julio Contreras was truly a man that was loved by all, and will be remembered in our hearts forever.
Julio is survived by his loving wife Elisa, son Danny & wife Deborah, grandsons Dustin & David of Claremont, son Elias & wife Lori and granddaughter Megan & grandson Alex of San Diego, daughter Elisa Anna "Donna" of Claremont, son Christopher and fiancee Jaime of Claremont, and Julie's daughter Krista. His surviving siblings are Andrew Torres of Montclair, Alfred Contreras of Oregon, Esperanza Gonzales of Shasta Lake City, Manuel Contreras of Montclair and Jenny Ruiz of Upland.
Viewing is from 4 to 8 p.m. with the rosary at 6:30 p.m. at Todd Memorial Chapel in Claremont (909-622-1217) on Monday, February 11, 2008. Mass at 10 a.m. at Our Lady of the Assumption Catholic Church (909-626-3596) on Tuesday, February 12, 2008. Burial will immediately follow at Holy Cross Cemetery (909-627-3602).
~ Published in Inland Valley Daily Bulletin on Feb. 9, 2008
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