Corinne Price

(Widow of Bob Price)

During childhood, living in the South-Pacific with her parents and sister Barbaree, Corinne had already made up her mind she wanted to go and live in the United States. So, after finishing high school in the Netherlands (Corinne was born into a Dutch family) she took off and landed in Soledad for her big adventure in California (1966). After finishing her education at San Francisco State University, where she met her beloved husband Bob, Corinne started teaching in the Creative Living program at the Salinas Adult School in 1971. Within just several years she already became director/principal of the entire Salinas Adult Education Program.

At that time, classrooms were scattered all over Salinas and Corinne’s dream was to have one building where all courses could be taught. The project started in 1985, and the beautiful red brick building’s grand opening was September 1990. Corinne was able to achieve this goal, mainly due to her strong determination, relentless drive and powerful communication skills. For this she had to overcome many obstacles which included designing the school, securing funding and ultimately realizing its construction. Up until today, adults in the Salinas area can attend classes like Adult Basic Education, a High School curriculum, English as a Second Language plus Citizenship Program and many Career Technical education programs, to name a few.

This can truly be called a legacy and in 2008 Corinne was recognized as the Adult Education Administrator of the Year by the Association of California School Administrators. 2008 was also the year during which she retired to enjoy a well-deserved and relaxing time from a life that wasn’t always easy. Her dear husband, Robert (Bob) Price, had been severely injured in a tragic accident that took her mother’s life. As a couple, they were able to bond together and overcome this mentally and, for Bob, physically difficult situation. Once again, Corinne showed her strength as she was both taking care of her husband, supporting him greatly, while having a very demanding job.

In 2018, Corinne was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, a challenge she faced with strength and resilience. She continued to enjoy the things that meant the most to her: travel, meals with old and new friends, and time with her family in the Netherlands or in California.

Our strong, independent and inspiring Corinne has passed away. She will be greatly missed, however the good she did and the joy she brought will live on in our hearts.