Rudolph V. "Rudy" Escalante Sr.

Rudolph V. "Rudy" Escalante Sr.
July 19, 1935 - July 16, 2013
Resident of Santa Cruz
Recitation of the Holy Rosary and Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday and Tuesday in Santa Cruz for Rudy Escalante Sr., who passed away in Santa Cruz on July 16, 2013.
Born in Watsonville, Rudy would have celebrated his 78th birthday on July 19th. A graduate of Watsonville High School in 1953, he worked for the Watsonville Police Department from 1957 to 1958. For more than 37 years, Rudy worked as a trouble shooter with Pacific Gas and Electric, and following his retirement from there, was employed with Benito and Azzaro Pacific Gardens Chapel for 10 years. He leaves many dear friends and colleagues who will truly miss his smile, politeness, and eagerness to help.
He was an active member of Holy Cross Church, Star of the Sea Church, Knights of Columbus, Druids, and Santa Cruz Elks Lodge where he received Elk of the Year honors. His family will forever cherish the many memories of Rudy's love for people. Whether it was watching young athletes compete in sporting events, or comforting someone who was in need, he was a genuine and caring man who touched many lives in various ways.
He was a talented athlete, and enjoyed both baseball and football. Rudy was an avid fan of the San Francisco Giants, and the 49ers. For many years, he was a member of the chain crew at the Cabrillo College Football Games, and volunteered at the Santa Cruz Dad's Club tournaments.
He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Donna Escalante, his two sons and daughters in-law, Rudy and Cathie Escalante and Bernie and Amelia Escalante; his daughter Judy Escalante; sisters Rita Love and Martha Bargas, and his brothers, Ronnie Bargas and Ray Bargas. He also leaves his three loving grandchildren, Mason, Ellie and Jake, along with numerous cousins and extended family. Rudy was preceded in death by his parents, Alma and Greg Bargas and his brother Randy Bargas.
Friends and family will gather on Monday, July 22, 2013 at Benito and Azzaro Pacific Gardens Chapel where the visitation will take place from 12 noon until 8 p.m. The rosary will be recited at 6 p.m. The mass will be celebrated on Tuesday, July 23 at our Lady Star of the Sea Catholic Church (515 Frederick Street, Santa Cruz) beginning at 10 a.m. The committal service will be private at Holy Cross Mausoleum. Contributions may be made in his memory to the Santa Cruz High School Dad's Club (415 Walnut Ave. Santa Cruz CA. 95060). If you wish to light a candle and share your condolences with Rudy's family, please visit www.pacificgardenschapel.com