Clifford Mendoza

Clifford Mendoza, 88, and long-time resident of La Jolla, California passed away at Silverado Senior Living on April 17, 2018.

Clifford was born on April 9, 1930 to Rosalio Mendoza and Hortense Salgado. A San Diego native, Cliff graduated from San Diego High School. He entered the Army on January 12, 1949 and earned the Korean Service Medal with 5 Bronze Stars. A very private man, he kept his memories of war to himself, but honored those lost by viewing old photographs and letters and watching the Military Channel.

After an honorable discharge, Cliff worked for San Diego Unified School District in a number of prominent positions. He was a teacher foremost, but achieved notoriety as the first bilingual resource specialist for the school district. He went on to become a vice principal, then his final assignment before retiring in 1990 was as Principal of Jones Elementary School located in Sierra Mesa.

Always kind and caring, Cliff was a devoted family man who loved movies, live theater, travel, and tennis. He was an avid runner and a skier who loved the challenge of “the diamond runs.” But most of all Cliff loved gatherings that mixed his family with friends. He will ever be remembered as a dear, even-keeled man, a devoted father, husband and friend. He will be sorely missed.

Hobbies:

Cliff’s love of tennis was infectious. At his best, he played at least three days a week and attended social tennis with several groups on a monthly basis. He also loved music, jazz specifically. He was an avid theater-goer enjoying musicals, drama and comedy. The daily crossword puzzle was a must as was a weekly social hour with long-time La Jolla neighbors.

Organizations:

La Jolla Pres Church acting as Deacon

SDUSD Administrators Association Member

A member of Tennis La Jolla

Survived by:

Clifford is survived by his wife, Candace Lee Mendoza, son David Mendoza, daughter Robyn Mendoza, step-sons Mark Mathias, Jeff Mathias and Thad McKay, brothers Mac Mendoza and Bob Mendoza and Sister Irene along with numerous grandchildren.

Service:

A private service and interment will be held at Miramar National Cemetery officiated by Chaplain Marcos Hernandez M.Div. on November 2, 2018. A “Celebration of Life” will be held at the home of Mrs. Diana Farr after the service. Information will be forthcoming in the Fall.

Proceeded in Death by:

Leanne Mendoza, Mother of David Mendoza and Robyn Anne Mendoza

Jeanne Mendoza, Mother of Mark Mathias and Jeffrey Mathias

Mike Mendoza, Brother

Adeline Mendoza, Sister

Pete Mendoza, Brother

Mary Mendoza, Sister

Donations in Lieu of Flowers:

The Michael J. Fox Foundation

Special Message:

The family wishes a special thanks to all of the staff at Silverado Memory Care in Encinitas. They were truly devoted to Cliff and provided the utmost in care and concern for his well-being.

Publications:

La Jolla Light (summer, 2018)

Trident Society Website