LT Col (Ret) Jose G. Calderon

Jose Calderon was born in Douglas, Arizona, to Eduardo and Rafaela, naturalized American citizens. As the eldest son in a family of eight siblings, Jose grew up attending both public and Catholic schools and started working at a very young age. He was a great example to his younger siblings. His drive and perseverance led him to Arizona State University, where he majored in education, joined ROTC, and discovered a lifelong passion for flying.

Upon graduating, Jose was commissioned into the United States Air Force. His distinguished 31-year career with the Military Airlift Command took him around the globe, including a tour in Vietnam. The loss of his best friend during the war profoundly impacted him, reinforcing his patriotism and solidifying his decision to remain in the Air Force instead of transitioning to a civilian airline career.

While stationed in San Antonio, Texas, Jose met Geraldine, who was performing in town with a Texas Christian University ballet company. Their long-distance courtship blossomed into a marriage in September 1965, coinciding with his promotion to captain and an impending transfer to Hickam Air Force Base in Hawaii. Jose made it clear he wouldn’t go without her, and so began a life filled with family, service, and adventure.

Together, they raised their son, Tony, while moving between various bases, including Hickam AFB, Altus, Oklahoma; Montgomery, Alabama; and Shreveport, Louisiana. Jose juggled his demanding career with his roles as a devoted husband and father. From baseball games and horseback riding to building homes and riding motorcycles, the family embraced a dynamic lifestyle. Jose advanced through military ranks to lieutenant colonel, and took on leadership roles in squadron operations. His passion for flying remained steadfast, as did his enthusiasm for golf, which became his second great love after aviation.

Jose’s final military transfer brought the family to Norton Air Force Base in San Bernardino, California. It was there they welcomed their daughter, Andrea, and settled into a new chapter of life in Redlands. After retiring from the Air Force, Jose began a second career with Boeing in Long Beach, where he worked for 20 years. The job required a grueling commute, often forcing him to stay overnight during the week, which was a challenging time away from his family. Despite the distance, Jose eagerly returned home whenever he could to support Andrea in her many after-school activities, including soccer, cheerleading, scuba diving, and singing. He cherished these moments and maintained a deep bond with his family while also treasuring the camaraderie of his Boeing colleagues. He retired in 2009 after undergoing heart valve replacement surgery.

In retirement, Jose enjoyed the simple pleasures of life: more time on the golf course, weekends at the boat in Long Beach, and watching his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren at sports, motocross tracks and dance competitions. His love and dedication to his family never wavered.

Jose Calderon was a remarkable man, devoted to his country, his family, and his passions. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.