Rick Cody

Rick Cody, a devoted father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully of natural causes on March 6, 2025, in Sonora, CA, just shy of his 80th birthday. Born in Oakland, CA, on March 12, 1945, to Dolores Cody, Rick spent his early years in Alameda, where he attended Alameda High School and graduated with the class of 1962.

Rick built a career as a dedicated maintenance engineer, a profession that suited his practical nature and knack for problem-solving. He had an enduring love for the open road, often taking long drives with his children to lakes, parks, and hiking trails to share his appreciation of nature with them. He also had a deep passion for cars, enjoying the freedom they represented and the memories they helped create.

One of Rick's greatest joys was gathering with family and friends over good food and drinks, sharing laughter, and telling jokes. His wit and humor were always a highlight of any get-together. Ever the pragmatic man, he famously chose to marry on his birthday to ensure he would never forget his anniversary.

Rick is survived by his ex-wife, Cynthia Vera, with whom he shared five children: Ronald Cody and his wife Margaret Tysver; Christina Cody-Gunn and her husband Marko Gunn; Jonathan Cody and his wife Hyeyoung Cody; Cathryn Heilig and her husband Josh Heilig; and Rachel Ann Cody. He was preceded in death by his beloved son, Jason Cody, who passed in 1976.

Rick's legacy lives on in his cherished grandchildren: Jessica Cody-Herrera and her husband Alexander Herrera, along with their daughter Evie Herrera; Audrey Cody and Darla Cody of Oakland, CA; Lily Cody of Angels Camp, CA; Brian Gutierrez, Caitlyn Gutierrez, and Alaina Gutierrez of Sonora, CA; Joseph Gunn and Lauren Gunn; and Evan Heilig of Alameda, CA.

Rick will be remembered for his unwavering love for his family, his sense of humor, and the joy he found in life's simple pleasures. His presence will be deeply missed, but his spirit lives on in the memories and love he shared with those fortunate enough to know him.

A celebration of life will be planned at a later date, where friends and family can gather to honor and remember Rick in the way he would have loved-surrounded by laughter, stories, and good company.