Corky was born December 4, 1934 in Merced, California. He passed away August 9, 2022 in Chowchilla, California.
Corky attended local schools. He graduated from Chowchilla Union High School, but was unable to graduate with his class, as he was serving in the army. He joined the army when he was 17 years old in March 1952. He served 3 years in Korea and received a purple heart. Corky was discharged in March of 1955.
After the army, Corky worked with his dad milking cows, but soon realized milking cows was not for him. He started driving truck in 1958. Corky drove truck for 42 years, most of the time as a independent trucker, but also the last few years working for Gardner Trucking. In 2000, Corky was forced into retirement due to a heart attack.
The next several years he enjoyed traveling with his wife Loretta in their 5th wheel. They traveled throughout the United States, Canada and Arizona during the winter months.
Corky was proud to serve and honor his country and also was very proud to be a Chowchillian. He was a member of several clubs and organizations. Corky was a Life Member of Veterans of Foreign War Post 9896 Corbet Brown and was working on his 65th year. Also was a Past Post Commander and a Past District Officer. He also was a member of the American Legion Post 148 and a Lion's Club member for over 50 years, receiving the Melvin Jones Fellowship Award. He also participated in The Lion's Annual Christmas Tree Lighting, the Tehran Shriners, he was also a well beloved brother of E. Clampus Vitus Grub Gulch (Chapter 41-49), 32nd Mason Scottish Rite and was a Chowchilla Fair Volunteer for over 60 years.
Corky loved Chowchilla and the people. Chowchilla was his Home!
Corky was preceded in death by his first wife Christine and his recent wife Loretta, His best friend and companion, "Willow the Cat." He is survived by his daughter Becky Magill (Dave) of Montana and his son Larry Payton (Tricia) of Idaho, sister in law Rosalie Andrews of Chowchilla, Granddaughter Shelby Payton of Idaho and his niece Ginger Wilkins of Selma, California.
Following the service, the family invites you to come shoot the Bull and Share stories about "Corky" at the Rebekah Hall on Ventura and 3rd Street.
In Lieu of Flower's, the family ask that donations be made to your favorite charity or organization.
