Julio “Gena” Contreras
CA state peace officer, community volunteer  

Julio “Gena” Contreras, a lifelong Claremont resident, died at the age of 70 on February 5, 2008 at Kaiser Permanente in Fontana. Born and raised in Claremont, during his childhood and youth he attended Sycamore Elementary School and the original Claremont High School at the Old School House.

In the midst of high school academics, Mr. Contreras was also a star athlete, lettering in football, baseball and track all 4 years. He continued his studies at the California State Polytechnic University, Pomona, where he was involved in student government and attained high academic achievement that led to a position on the Dean’s List.

While academics were of high regard in the life of Mr. Contreras, family was his ultimate priority. He married his high school sweetheart, Elisa “Alice” Contreras, and their marriage lasted over 50 years and brought 5 children into the world: Julie, Daniel, Elias, Elisa Anna “Donna” and Christopher. His appreciation for family led him to become a coach, mentor and advisor in the city of Claremont. He coached youth sports, such as soccer, baseball and football, and counseled at-risk youth for over 30 years.

Mr. Contreras’ involvement in his community surpassed volunteer activity—it was the focus of his professional life as well. For 10 years, he worked as a police officer in Montclair and eventually became a California State Peace Officer for 28 years. He retired with the rank of correctional lieutenant.

In retirement, Mr. Contreras endured health problems that could have been debilitating, but he still enjoyed life by traveling with his wife and family. Although his health problems became increasingly severe, he never slowed down and always lived life to the fullest, shared the family.

“Even in death, his legacy will live on and inspire those who he has touched to persevere through life’s hardships, give to those who are in need, believe in the good in all and never miss the opportunity to show someone you love just how special they are by saying the words, ‘I love you’,” wrote his son, Christopher Contreras, in a remembrance.

Mr. Contreras is survived by his wife, Elisa Contreras of Claremont; by his sons and daughters-in-law, Danny and Deborah Contreras of Claremont and Elias and Lori Contreras of Bonita; by his daughter, Elisa Anna “Donna” Contreras of Claremont; by his son, Christopher Contreras, and his fiancé, Jaime, of Claremont; by his brothers, Andrew Torres of Montclair, Alfred Contreras of Oregon and Manuel Contreras of Montclair; by his sisters, Esperanza Gonzales of Shasta Lake City and Jenny Ruiz of Upland; and by his grandchildren, Dustin, David, Megan and Alex Contreras and Krista Contreras-Williams. He was predeceased by his daughter, Julie Contreras-Williams, in 1997. 

A Memorial Mass was held at Our Lady of the Assumption Church, Claremont, on February 12, 2008. Burial immediately followed at Holy Cross Cemetery.