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Christopher Serpa Obituary
Lodi, CA
December 22, 1953 - May 9, 2006
Christopher John "Chris" Serpa age 52 of Lodi, passed away on Tuesday, May 9, 2006. Chris was born in Tracy on December 22, 1953, and graduated from Tracy High School in 1972. Chris met his wife, Nora Ann, at Delta College, and later graduated from California State University, Sacramento with a degree in Criminal Justice. Between them they had two children, Nicole Marie and Anthony David. Chris went on to become a Deputy with the San Joaquin County Sheriff's Department. During his time with the department, he ascended through the ranks ultimately reaching the rank of Captain of the Custody Division. Chris also helped in establishing the San Joaquin County Sheriff's Department Honor Guard, as well as being a member. In 2004 Chris had the opportunity to attend and graduated from the FBI National Academy. Chris was recently appointed to the position of Sergeant-at-Arms for the American Jail Association's Board of Directors. In his spare time Chris enjoyed being a member of the Knights of Columbus, 4-H, Leadership Stockton, being a judge for the Tracy American Legion Law and Order Night, and aiding the Special Olympics through "Tip-A-Cop." Chris' true love, however, was having the ability to come home and work on his ranch in Lodi, where he spent many hours raising livestock and tending to the yard. Chris is survived by his wife, Nora; daughter, Nicole and son, Anthony, as well as his father, John Joseph; mother, Dolores; sister, Gaylene and brothers, Michael, Paul and John Thomas. Although Chris will be missed, he will always be remembered as a loving husband, father, son and brother. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday, May 15, 2006 at 10:00 a.m. at the Cathedral of the Annunciation, 425 W. Magnolia St., Stockton with graveside services following at Cherokee Memorial Park in Lodi. Public viewing will be available on Saturday, May 13, 2006 between the hours of 2:00 and 5:00 p.m. and again on Sunday from 12:00 noon to 5:00 p.m. at Frisbie-Warren & Carroll Mortuary, 809 N. California St., Stockton. A Recitation of the Rosary will be on Saturday at 5:00 p.m. in the mortuary chapel. To celebrate Chris' life, read his life story and share your memories please visit www.mem.com. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the San Joaquin Chapter of the Special Olympics, 3841 N. Freeway Blvd., Suite 280, Sacramento, CA 95834 or to Micke Grove Zoo, 11793 Micke Grove Rd., Lodi, CA 95240.
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Memories and Condolences
for Christopher Serpa
Christine Reeves
May 20, 2006
To the entire Serpa Family,
I was so sorry to hear of the passing of Chris, he was too young to leave us this way. Rest assured his life was full and he was a very dedicated Sheriff's Deputy. He was promoted through the ranks was a great person. He is with God now, safe and happy for all times and will be with you all forever. God works in some strange ways and sometimes we must wonder why, but He has a reason, just sometimes we don't understand why. I know Chris is with God now. My thoughts and prayers are with the Serpa Family. I worked with Chris for many years with the SJ Co. S/O and there is not enough room to sing his praises. He was a good person. Christine Reeves, Retired Sgt. SJSO, now living in Lincoln, CA
Steve & Kimberly Crosby
May 19, 2006
Please accept our deepest condolences for your loss. We hope you find confort in knowing Capt. Serpa was a good man who shall live on in our memories. Our sincere sympathy goes out to you and your family.
Laurie Frazier
May 19, 2006
My sincere sympathy to the entire Serpa family. Chris was such a rock; words can't express how shocked I was to hear of his death. I will not forget his laconic, dry humor and friendly smile. My best to all of you.
Kathleen Valencia
May 17, 2006
To all who loved him:
You are in my thoughts and prayers. Remember: His memory is a treasure more valued each day, locked in your hearts with the key thrown away. Love and Belief, Kathy (daughter of Ray Rosenquest)
Susie & John Peterson
May 15, 2006
Dear Nora, Nichole, Anthony, Step-Father John, Mom Lynn, Step Siblings Paul, Mike, Gaylene, John Thomas and the rest of this very large family. I always keep all of my family in my prayers everyday and night. I'll always remember Chris for his sense of humor. What a wonderful soul. I know God has big plans for him. Just know that Chris will be watching us all and he'll be a guiding light for his family.
Nora...I know we haven't spent much time to get to know each other better and I'm sorry for that. Please don't hesitate to call or e-mail me if you need anything. No matter what it is and no matter what time of day or night. Mom and John have my phone number and I'll attach my e-mail address to the end of this.
John (Favorite Stepdad), I'll be here for you and mom too. Anything you need please don't hesitate to call me. I have time on my hands and am available to come and just sit with you if that's what you need.
Love and Prayers to you all as well as to all of Chris' friends and Law Enforcement Family. You ALL gave Chris an Amazing and Beautiful Tribute. I know he is very proud of you ALL!!!
Susie & John Peterson, Gregory McHale, Matthew Billings and Jacqui Peterson.
[email protected]
Cheryl Wooden
May 15, 2006
Mrs. Serpa, Nichole and Anthony; I am so sorry to hear of the untimely loss of Chris. My deep condolences and prayers go out to you. Sgt. Serpa was a noble man who loved his family. It was an honor to have known him and worked with him. He will be missed by all who knew him. May God be with all of you.
Roger Thomas
May 15, 2006
I am honored to have known such a great human being. If I could be anyone, it would be Chris. He lit up a room and his love for all cannot be compared. Heaven has been blessed. You are my new patron saint.
Rosemary Jhao-Cathcart
May 15, 2006
My sincere condolences to the entire Serpa family. I first met Capt. Serpa last year when he served as a mentor with the San Joaquin County Mentor Partnership Program. Again, we both returned this year to serve on the program. As a fellow mentor, I have always admired him for his quiet strength. He had a commanding presence whenever he stepped into the room. He was such a great role model that my former co-worker, Doris Cody, was very fortunate to have had him has her mentor. I would always talk to him as he came into our office to help her with her personal and professional work goals. She always talked highly of him, about his professionalism, etc. Yes,I will miss his presence and that wonderful smile. By my prayers, may the Lord get you through this loss.
Michael Oster
May 15, 2006
I just found out on May 15th of Chris’s premature death. I am deeply sorry for your loss.
I wish I could have attended the service.
I first met Chris back in 1985 while we where both attending CSUS. Chris was a FTO for San Joaquin County and I was an Officer for Isleton PD. Chris was one of the most professional law enforcement officers I had ever met. Over the years where ever I was working, Merced PD, for the UN in Kosovo, or now in Solano County, Chris and I kept in touch by phone or e-mail. It did not matter how long we had not spoken to each other, we picked up as if we had only just spoke. Chris was a good friend and mentor. I will deeply miss him.
Michael J. Oster
Deputy Sheriff
Solano County Sheriffs Office.
La Tosha Walden
May 15, 2006
Captain Serpa's great leadership will be missed by many. He was a great man that accomplished a lot in his life.
God Bless the Serpa Family
Charlie Aoun
May 15, 2006
I'm very sorry for you loss, Chris was a very good member of this community and he will be missed. but he lefts us wil good memories.
Mary Mead
May 15, 2006
My prayers to the family. Sgt Serpa was one of the finest Law Enforcement officers, that there was or ever will be.
Rick Berger, Vice Pres., LSAA
May 15, 2006
On behalf of the Leadership Stockton Alumni Association, I extend our heartfelt sympathy to the entire Serpa family. Chris was a warm and generous man who will be missed by all those who had the good fortune to know him.
Carolyn
May 15, 2006
Dear Serpa family,
I'm saddened to hear of the loss of Chris, who I met many years ago when he was working for his dad, attending college, and courting his beloved Nora, able to somehow juggle it all. I'll remember him as a gentleman and a godly man.
My condolences to his family and friends at this difficult time of loss. May God bring comfort to your hearts.
Carolyn Craig (formerly Zavala)
Jason Eala
May 15, 2006
My condolences to the Serpa Family for their loss of such a great person. I never really knew Capt Serpa. But I got the chance to get to know him a little during my interviews for a position with SJSO.
Capt Serpa will be missed by everyone he's encountered in his life. Even if it was just for a brief moment. May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
William & Marianne Isaacs
May 14, 2006
Chris was an outstanding role model both on and off the job. Most people aspire to conduct their lives in this manner but Chris was the real example. I am proud to have known and worked under Chris. Our sincerest condolences to his family.
FRANN AND DAN STRUVE
May 13, 2006
NORA, NICOLE, AND ANTHONY, MY GOD I AM SO SORRY. WORDS CAN NOT TELL YOU HOW SORRY I FEEL. DAN AND I ARE SHOCKED AND SADDENED FOR YOU ALL. THIS IS A GREAT LOSS FOR ALL OF OUR COMMUNITY AND FRIENDS OF YOURS. PLEASE CALL ON US IF THERE IS ANYTHING WE CAN DO FOR YOU. PLEASE KNOW OUR THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU. LOVE DAN AND FRANN STRUVE
Steve Macias
May 13, 2006
Dear Nora, Nicole and Anthony,
I am very sorry to hear about the recent, and untimely, death of Chris. He was a great person and will surely be missed.
My prayers go out to you, as well as the rest of Chris' family, during this time. Take care and God bless all of you.
bob hill
May 13, 2006
deepest condolences to all the serpa family,i haven't talked to chris in a long time,and i was shocked.we went to tracy high together played football.he was such a good person even in high school,and by reading all the guest book entries he was a truly great person loved by all
EUGENE DAVIS JR
May 13, 2006
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Mike Serpa
May 13, 2006
On behalf of the Serpa family I wish to thank each of you for your prayers, thoughts and kind words.
Dee Alimbini
May 13, 2006
Your cousin, Alison and I wish to express our shock and sorrow at Chris' passing. I remember him as soft spoken, good natured and with a wonderful sense of family. I know he left many wonderful memories for you to treasure. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all....Ali and Dee
Carol Sue MacDonald
May 13, 2006
Chris will be missed dearly by his family and all of his friends. He was always there when you needed guidance or help with a problem. My prayers are with his family and his friends.
Kimberley Borgens
May 13, 2006
When I saw Chris he had a joyful spirit about him. Always eager to teach and help those in need. I enjoyed the time and energy he put into Leadership Stockton and Special Olympics. He truly has left a Legacy to be proud of.
Elaina Maxon
May 13, 2006
Words cannot express my sorrow. I send my deepest sympathies to his entire family. I join my co-workers in our great pain of loss. Christopher John was a wonderful man to work for, a joy to talk with, and a symbol of "do the right thing" for us all to aspire to. His great love for, and pride in, his family was evident at all times. I will treasure my memories of him until my last day. God Bless Christopher John and his family whom he loved so dear.
CJS - I would miss you when you left for a 3 day conference how in the world am I going to get through this? - EGM
Bob Kaku
May 12, 2006
My thoughts and prayers to family. In childhood and being neighbors with family, thought this man showed integrity and character, honored to have known such a person. Sorry for your loss and may God Bless You All.
Joe Herrera and Your Basketball Team
May 12, 2006
To the entire Serpa Family,
Words, can not describe what a wonderful man and leader Chris was, nor can they express the deepest sorrow we all have in our hearts for your loss. We already miss him. For those who were lucky enough to have known him, or worked with him at the SJSO it will never be the same. My God be with the Serpa family and help them during this traumatic loss.
Mr. & Mrs. Sam Mitchell
May 12, 2006
Word can't express our sorrow for you and your children. Chris was such a soft spoken, personable man, and we were lucky to have know him
Captian Mike & Bev Ries
May 12, 2006
Thinking of your family and praying that God will send you all peace, in this difficult time.
So sorry for your loss.
Douglass Wilhoit
May 12, 2006
In my 39 years of public service including the Stockton PD and SJ County Board of Supervisors I have known many wonderful people. Chris is at the top of my list! He gave so much to so many and was a true leader and gentlman. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends! I will always feel fortunate for having known Chris. May God bless him and all of you.
Lisa Pierce
May 12, 2006
I wish I could say I knew Chris.... I had seen him a few times around the county but never knew him personally.....
May your memories be the glue that holds you together in this time....
May God Bless your family...
Praying for you,
Terry Eproson
May 12, 2006
We always wonder why people like Chris have to leave so soon. He was such a wonderful person and great to work with. I'm so sorry.
Blair & Lisa Ulring & Family
May 12, 2006
Our thoughts and prayers go out to the whole Serpa family and his extended law enforcement family at the San Joaquin County Sheriff's Office. God Bless
Kimberly Moule
May 12, 2006
My sincere condolences go out to you and your family. May you find solace in knowing what a truely dedicated and sincere person Captain Serpa was. I have had the pleasure of knowing him and working under his command for the last few years. He leaves a legacy and will be missed very much.
Betsy Bogart
May 12, 2006
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Chris was one of the good ones. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Terry & Kristy Fields
May 12, 2006
Our sincere sympathies go out to all of Chris's family, friends, and colleagues. You will remain in our hearts and prayers as you continue on life's journey.
Grace and Daniel Siazon
May 12, 2006
Chris, you were a true kind-hearted spirit who touched the lives of all who knew you and who worked with you. What an honor to have worked with you. May God comfort your family through this difficult time and may they keep you alive through all the good memories you shared. God Bless...
Gary & Elisabeth Padula
May 12, 2006
Chris
You will be greatly missed. We will always remember you.
Bianca, Keith, & Rowdy Sperry
May 12, 2006
our heart felt condolences go out to Nora, Nichole, Antohony and the rest of the family. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Shawn Edens
May 12, 2006
Chris was one of the most righteous, noble men I have ever worked with. The San Joaquin County Sheriff's office has suffered a great loss.
Paul Gonzales
May 12, 2006
I met Chris when I became a member of the Knights of Columbus. I was working for the Probation department at the time and Chris was trying to recruit me to come work for the Sheriff department. He influenced me enough to apply. Chris was an awesome individual who will be missed by everyone. My condolences to his family.
Gary and Eileen Riesenbeck
May 12, 2006
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Jaime Myers
May 12, 2006
Nora, Nicole, Anthony and Serpa Family,
I am so sorry for your loss. This is truly a loss to everyone that knew Chris. He was a wonderful man and he will be missed dearly. He was always like a father to me and I have many memories of him. Love you all...Jaime
Bob & Becky Cordero
May 12, 2006
Serpa Family
Our thoughts & prayers go out to you.
Doris Cody
May 12, 2006
My condolences to the Serpa Family. My name is Doris Cody and I had the honor of meeting Capt. Serpa in January 2006, he was my Mentor for San Joaquin County. Capt. Serpa was a very kind person and a true leader. I have only known him 4 months, but he has supported me in so many ways. I just recently started a new position after leaving SJC Mental Health to take another position. Capt. Serpa was so happy for me and I appreciate his joy for me to suceed in my career. He gave me a Sheriff's badge (small one)in honor of my new position, which I am proud to wear. I will deeply miss him and want the family to know God will get you through this. I lost my only daughter 8 years ago and God got me through and he'll be there for you also. God bless you Mrs. Serpa and your family.
Pat Rosaz
May 12, 2006
My Sincere sympathy goes out to the Serpa Family. I was very fortunate to work with Chris as being apart of honor guard when someone passed away, I worked at the Cathedral for over 15 years and whenever there was a sheriff's funeral I worked closely with Chris he was a very kind and humble person and a devote catholic, he is surely going to be missed by his peers and with the community that he served, I will miss him and will keep him in my prayers and thoughts and also to his family.
Maryann Dees
May 12, 2006
John,Delores,Gaylene, and boys:
As your backyard neighbor for more than 20yrs, we played with the kids over the fence. Our heartfelt sympathy, goes out to Nora and her children, and your family. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
Gaylene if you need me just call.
Mary Spradling
May 12, 2006
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Lori Barksdale
May 12, 2006
My heart goes out to the entire Serpa family. Hold onto all the good memories you each have of Chris, and he will be with you in your hearts forever.
Robert Humphreys
May 12, 2006
I worked with Chris for many years. He was one of the most professional law enforcement officers that I knew. My sympathy goes out to his family. He will be missed by those who knew him.
Kenneth Pullman
May 12, 2006
Dear Nora & Family,
We offer our deepest condolences during this time of mourning and would like to offer our support & prayers for you.
Ken & Donna Pullman and Family
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