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Joseph Corcoran Obituary
April 17, 1980 - November 8, 2013
Resident of Santa Cruz
We mourn the loss of Joseph Corcoran, who passed away at 33 years old doing what he loved, riding his Harley Sportster. Joseph's death was the result of a tragic accident on Friday, November 8th in Santa Barbara County. Born and raised in Santa Cruz, Joseph was a generous and loyal man, who loved and was loved by all who knew him. His sense of humor and ability to make you laugh, even when you least expected it, was unmatched. Joseph was a skilled carpenter, and proud of his membership in the Carpenter's Local No. 505. Joseph learned building from his father, and honed his craft in New York, Chicago, and the Bay Area. He eventually came home to Santa Cruz, where, as he would put it, he continued to Build America. Throughout his life, Joseph was a talented artist in many mediums, particularly paint and leather work. Of all his adventures, his nationwide 'Merica Tour in 2010 was his most storied. Over the course of two months, Joseph rode his Harley Sportster clear across the country and back, making countless friends along the way. Joseph loved riding free, knees in the breeze.
He is survived by his parents, Myles and Pat Corcoran of Santa Cruz, sisters and brothers-in-law, Julia and Christopher Smith of Mountain View; Rachel and Nicolas Stoian of Queens, New York, along with numerous loving aunts, uncles, cousins, and extended family, and innumerable friends.
Friends and family will gather on Saturday November 16th at Benito and Azzaro Pacific Gardens Chapel beginning at 10 a.m. to celebrate Joseph's life. In lieu of flowers, acts of charity may be made to the Y.E.S. School; please send to Encompass Community Services (195 Harvey West Blvd, Santa Cruz, CA 95060) in Joseph's name.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Joseph Corcoran
Michael Corcoran
November 8, 2021
The tragady has been compunded by Joe's early death as since his untimely death his extended family has been increased by five neices and nephews. When Joe was born he made me an uncle, all I can say is he would have been a great uncle to these wonderful kids.
July 20, 2014
Joe, I just learned of your passing. Although we hadn't seen each other in years, I will never forget your genuine, down-to-earth spirit and all the fun times together with George and friends. You always made me laugh. Hopefully you forgive George for that time in San Diego you guys got into a little scuffle and he tried to stab you with a pen. LOL. I'm sure you do. Good times ;)
ken nagahara
February 12, 2014
I will live to the fullest with you, for you. you will be with us on the road and the good times. I'll see you on the other side. I wish I ran into you, but won't be forgotten brother.
Lesha Lippi
January 8, 2014
I love you Joe!! Ride free and paint the sky. Always in my heart. xoxo
January 8, 2014
I love and miss you every day little buddy!! My heart is always with you. Ride free xoxo
gordon t
November 21, 2013
RIP JOE, had the oppertunity to meet and befreind him in chicago, sad to hear this
Unkie Mike
November 19, 2013
We lost a good one. My family misses him greatly.
Barbara Monett
November 19, 2013
Dearest Pat, Myles and girls-
I just heard the heartbreaking news and am joining your loving community sending you love and prayers in honor of your Joseph. I honestly can't find words that might possibly comfort you the way I wish they could. May the spirit of love, peace, wholeness and healing wrap you, protect you and give you strength to hold each other with deep compassion.
November 19, 2013
I am shocked and saddened by this news. So sorry. May God's presence illuminate your hearts and bring you peace.
Myles Corcoran
November 18, 2013
I speak for my family in out gratitude for each of you who have spoken well of our son Joseph. Your concern for us and memories of Joseph help us. Love, Myles
Jo Quinn
November 18, 2013
Dear Pat, Myles, Rachel and Julia,
I am so sorry I am so far away and cannot express my love for your family in person. I am thinking of all of you and especially that little boy Joseph who was my companion so many years ago. I was so happy to see that donations can be made to the YES school in his name. Love, with all my heart.
I pray for a brighter tomorrow.
Jim Howes
November 18, 2013
I can't imagine the loss that you and your family are feeling and only wish I could more than type words. I pray for healing in your hearts and family. With a sunset there comes a sunrise and I pray for yours to be one where you always remember Joseph.
Gabrielle Laney-Andrews
November 17, 2013
Dear Pat, Myles and family,
We just happened to come by Windsor St. on Sat. the 16th to visit Del. He told us he had come from Joseph's memorial. This was the first that we learned of the tragedy.
So sorry for your loss and the loss to the community. Heartfelt condolences, our thoughts and prayers are with you all ways.
mMary Tingley
November 17, 2013
Pat, Myles and girls, we are so very saddened and know that through the strength of your family and friends you will take comfort. Love, Mary Tingley and family
Rhoda Preston Flint
November 17, 2013
Dearest Pat, Myles and family, My heart goes out to you. I've missed you all so much and now Joseph is gone at such a young age. The pain must be terrible. May you find peace in loving memories, and support from those who share your pain.
Tiffany Hudson
November 16, 2013
For Pat and your precious Family,
Wishing you peace to bring comfort, courage to face the days ahead and loving memories of Joe to forever hold in your hearts.
With love and hugs,
November 16, 2013
Dear Pat and family,
I am holding you in my prayers for peace and comfort during this time of tragedy and sorrow.
Please know that you are loved deeply,
Carolyn Irish
Adrienne Meier
November 15, 2013
Myles, Pat and Girls,
Please know that our thoughts are with you during this very hard time...May you feel Joseph's love all around you..
With deep sorrow, Adrienne & Mark Meier
Justin Smith
November 15, 2013
Joe was really an all american man. His beard was better than mine. He always talked me down from all of my spazz out fits. with honesty and a real down to earth manly prospective. im gonna miss that guy so much. he was a rock for me as a human. not just a crew member. He was my gauge on how I should feel instead of how i allowed myself to feel...you know? He was a role model to me... Living the way I wished i could.
He was someone I looked up to. And I wish I could tell him that one more time.
Time is Too Short.
Chi-Cha Russo-Boyes
November 15, 2013
Pat, Myles and family
My heart goes out to all of you in dealing with your loss of Joseph.
Debbie Liardet
November 15, 2013
Your family is in my thoughts and prayers at this time of deep sorrow. I am so sorry for your loss.
Janinne & Daren Chadwick
November 14, 2013
Corcoran family, holding you all in our hearts. So so sad for this loss.
Rick Larsen & Ellen Cooper
November 14, 2013
Pat and Myles
Ellen and I are so sad to hear of Joseph Passing . He was always quick with a big wave and a kind smile . Please know that your Windsor street neighbors are thinking of you in this difficult time .
Sharon Lucchesi
November 14, 2013
So very saddened to hear of your son's passing...my deepest sympathy.
Donna Ramos
November 14, 2013
Dear Pat,
I read the news about your son with great sadness. My oldest son died a few months ago so I share your deep grief. It is incomprehensible. I can see from his picture that he was a happy man - may your wonderful memories of him bring you moments of peace. Blessings to you and all of your family
Lydia Pickett
November 14, 2013
You will forever be in the hearts of so many. Thank you for the laughs & the memories, Joe.
November 14, 2013
Dear Pat and Miles--
On behalf of Aaron and I, we are sending our heartfelt
condolsences. May he rest in peace.
Liz Rondelle
James Bonney
November 14, 2013
I'm going to miss you, my friend.
Ryan Bond
November 14, 2013
Rest in Peace Joe. Knees in the breeze!
Debra Heavens
November 14, 2013
Please know that you are in my heartfelt prayers. Sending you comfort with deepest sympathy
Joyce & Otto Lund
November 14, 2013
I can't begin to express my surprise and dismay over this. Joe was someone I will remember for all times. I am just so damn sorry... Miles, Pat and the rest of the family you have our condolences.
Karen Tanasescu
November 14, 2013
I am holding you all in my heart.
James Bonney
November 14, 2013
My Aries brother..."the road is all".
Nancy Stinger
November 14, 2013
My son Christopher was inspired as a young boy by Joseph. He encouraged him to follow his passion and dreams. He is so saddened to hear of his passing as am I am as a parent to learn of your loss. Please know that I am in prayer for him and your family. His light will forever shine in your heart and you will always feel his presence.
DD Weir
November 14, 2013
I can think of nothing sadder than losing a child. And we YES school parents all came so close to losing our children once and worked so hard to hold them in a safe space. You are excellent parents, you did a great job and it wasn't easy. I haven't seen him in 15 years but it looks like Joe became the fine person you always knew him to be. I know Joe appreciates your tough and tender love over the years. My heart goes out to you all.
Susi Downey
November 14, 2013
I will miss your wave and smile while riding past me on Windsor Street. So happy to have known you. Your light will shine always.
Tatiana Holly
November 14, 2013
Dearest Joe,
There is nothing I can truly say or do that will make you come back, though I have asked and begged for such things over the passing days and nights.. But I will declare with all my heart and soul, that though we only became friends 8 months ago, I feel as though you were the sort that inspired others, made them feel special, and always encouraged all, including myself to reach for the stars.. I hope you're cruising through the stars on your dream bike, letting your hair grow unimaginably long, all the while grinning that lovely grin that could have made Oscar the Grouch a philanthropist..
To the Corcoran Family, as well as all who cared , loved, and admired Joe,
I wrote a poem this morning inspired by Joe's adventurous spirit, and his unconditional love for all things wild in this amazing world..
For, and in Loving Memory of Joe: "Ride with the Stars"
Into the sunset, the setting sunset
towards the glowing orb he flew
And there he went without a hint,
the sky a lovely hue.
From Tangerine, to Crimson Red, then Violet Blue to Black
Though on this night, the weary stars
felt tired, old, and cracked
But stars of heaven do not get rest
and Soon they'd have to act.
"Wait Look Down There!" a celestial sphere exclaimed with Jubilee
as if bestowed, a man that glowed
he had just what they'd need.
A helmet of gold, like warrior's of old sat kingly on his brow
it Sparkled So, that the stars felt low
for they would not be needed now.
Down the road he blazed
his steel stallion strong,
It's heartbeat roared
It's nostrils flared,
Yet "FASTER!" still he urged
"We've made good time, But we Must go on, for we have no time to spare."
"Just a moment! Don't leave just yet
do listen to my plea."
A voice from no where, calling Him to halt?
his first thoughts were to flee.
"Don't go! Don't go! I'm not your foe,
I'm Celestia # 7."
And floating there
a globe of glare
descended straight from heaven.
"I mean no harm
I inquire only
in regards your ethereal glow.
What Is your secret? Please, Please do tell!
For it fills our hearts with a dread and drear
as we gaze upon your lovely glow, envious eyes watch two and fro.
For I must tell you my sweet dear, we were we are in Awe and fear.
For you out-shined even stars above
And brought us ALL, to perfect tears."
Laura & Ralph Peduto
November 13, 2013
We are tremendously saddened by the news of Joseph. His bright light was there for everyone he met. Our deepest condolences to his family.
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Benito & Azzaro Pacific Gardens Chapel - Santa Cruz1050 Cayuga St, Santa Cruz, CA 95062
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