By Dan Chmielewski | Liberal OC | Jan. 30, 2024 | Photo Courtesy of the Liberal OC
Organized Labor lost a giant Sunday. Ray Cordova passed away after a long illness in the Long Beach VA Hospital. Cordova was a longtime fan of this blog and a friend who will be missed.
Here’s the statement from the DPOC on Cordova’s passing:
The Democrat known as the “Godfather” of LA-OC labor politics has passed away. Ray Cordova was affectionately known as the Godfather after decades of activism, picketing, campaigning, and mentoring Democratic labor and other leaders.
He suffered a fall at his home office and while recuperating from that, developed a series of health problems that had kept him hospitalized. He passed away on January 28, 2024.
Raymond Cordova’s extraordinary life was centered around three things: his family, his country, and his union brothers and sisters.
He was a Vietnam War veteran serving as a sergeant in an Airborne unit. Ray’s long career in the Labor Movement included leading the Communications Workers of America Local 9571 and serving as a delegate to both LA and OC Labor Councils, and Chair of the South County Labor Council.
Ray also had stints serving as senior staff in federal and state government. He was Assistant to State Controller John Chiang who described him as, “A beautiful human being and friend, Ray Cordova was a man of faith, a devoted and loving husband and father, and a tough and fearless champion of working families. He ended conversations by telling his friends that he loved them. May you rest in eternal peace knowing you are beloved.”
“We will all miss Ray Cordova. He exuded patriotism, a service heart, and love of family, both at home with the love of his life, and for his Labor and Democratic Party family! He never stopped working hard to build our party when only a handful of Democrats held office. He inspired my annual Flag Day celebration. I learned from Ray the value of consistent regular connections to build relationships. I’ll miss his booming voice, love of country, and service-minded heart.” said Katrina Foley, Orange County Supervisor, Fifth District.
Ray’s entire career is a testament to his belief in core Democratic values. He has lived those values and instilled them in countless others. He will be deeply missed.
We extend our condolences to his family and wife of 56 years, Soon Ei.
In Solidarity,
Ada Briceño
Chairwoman, Democratic Party of Orange County
Democratic National Committee Member
