Husband of Antioch School Board trustee and former mayor, father of Antioch councilman and former Antioch High principal
Louis Gilbert Rocha passed away peacefully at home in Antioch, California, at the age of 90. Born in Scottsbluff, Nebraska, he was the beloved son of Lucas Rocha and Theresa Mijares.
He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings; Tony, Trina, Nellie, Bessie, Robert, Connie and Richard; son Greg and great-grandson Anthony.
He is survived by his sister Virginia Tart (Buck), loving wife Mary Helen; children Louie Rocha (Tammy) and Jessica Fernandez (Harold); grandchildren Louis Rocha II (Isychia), Ruben Rocha, Greg Rocha Jr. (Brenda), Marcela Meleah and Miley; great-grandchildren Louis III, Isychia, Ahteeiona and Lucas.
Lou’s early life was shaped by his family’s Dust Bowl journey from Nebraska to California. As the oldest son, he worked the fields to help support his family and later became a standout athlete at Escalon High School, earning All-Conference honors in football and graduated in 1954.
He married Mary Helen Bajaras in 1957 and served proudly in the U.S. Army Tank Battalion during the Korean War, receiving an honorable discharge in 1960.
Lou and Mary raised their family in Antioch, where he worked as a Foreman at Standard Pipe and volunteered extensively in youth sports and community service. He supported Mary’s public service career with devotion and pride, always placing family first.
A proud veteran, dedicated father, supportive husband, and loving grandfather, Lou will be remembered as the quiet strength of his family—the “Wind Beneath Their Wings.”
Funeral Services
Catholic Funeral Mass:
January 30, 2026, at 10:00AM
St. Ignatius Catholic Church, Antioch, California
Military Honors Burial:
January 30, 2026, at 1:30PM
Sacramento Valley National Cemetery, Dixon, California
Sam and Gwen Johnson. Photo by Antioch Sports Legends Museum
Service to be held Sept. 25 in Pittsburg
By Antioch High School
A standout and beloved Antioch High coach passed away on Sept. 15.
In the 1990s, Sam Johnson led the Antioch High girls basketball team for more than 10 years. He and his wife, Gwen, produced two Antioch Sports Legends Hall of Fame inductees – Stacy Johnson (HOF 2014) and Courtney Johnson (HOF 2015.)
The couple also often volunteered at the sports museum.
John Whitman, legendary AHS coach, wrote in a post: “We have lost a true role model in the passing of Sam Johnson … (He) was a a great coach and teacher in life and all who crossed paths with him are better for it! His mild-mannered approach was always evident in the heat of battle while making the whole experience a learning opportunity and fun for all. I am a better coach and person having Sam as my mentor.”
Said former player Kelli Phillips Bryson (Class of 1997): “He was a mentor, a role model, and a steady presence who shaped us on and off the court.”
Coach Johnson’s service will be held Sept. 25 with the viewing from 10-11am and funeral at 11am at First Baptist Church in Pittsburg.
To be honored posthumously with Antioch Citizen of the Year for Lifetime Achievement Award at annual Chamber Gala
Jimmy Gray Bean, born, October 12, 1939, in Pleasant Garden, N.C. passed away December 26, 2024, at age 85 in Antioch, CA. Jimmy is survived by his spouse Jane, children, Laura, Mark, Ken and Regina, plus eight Grandchildren: Danielle, Kris, Carl, Cheyenne, Nicole, Robbie, Brianna and Melissa, and seven Great Grandchildren: Anthony, Alexis, Aubry, Madison, Ashley, Magnum and Jordan. Jimmy dedicated his life to his family as well as his community.
He served in the National Guard in his home state of North Carolina then as a business owner and life-long member of the Antioch Lions Club as well as the Chamber of Commerce and Delta Advocacy. Jimmy owned the A Street Chevron station for many years. He also owned the Bridgehead Chevron Station and the Chevron Station near Somersville Towne Center.
He loved his family, golf, taking photos, wine, Elvis, celebrating accomplishments and assisting anyone in their time of need.
Friend Martha Goralka shared, “Jimmy was a life-long member of the Antioch Chamber of the Antioch Chamber of Commerce. He always paid his bill on time and when we suddenly had to close and volunteers had to make calls to see if members were willing to continue their membership, I was assigned to call Jimmy Bean. He said ‘yes, of course I want to continue,’ and paid immediately! My boss at the Daily Ledger, Bob Smith, always said Jimmy was an amazing man who put community first and was a self-made man. Bob thought very highly of Jimmy Bean.” She also mentioned that during the annual County Fair, Jimmy volunteered in the Lion’s Club beer booth.
Mike Green of the Delta Advocacy Foundation said, “Jimmy was one of our esteemed Spearhead members, alongside Leo Fontana, Jack Roddy and Gordan Gravelle. He was actively involved during the organization’s early years and played a significant role in its growth, eventually part of the organization becoming a million-dollar donor. His contributions were instrumental in all our major fundraisers. Jimmy ensured we had ice and that the Lion’s Club was available to help serve food and beer.”
“In honor of Jimmy and his dedication to the Lion’s Club, Delta Advocacy is purchasing a $9,000 vision assessment tool. This will enable the Lions of Byron and Brantwood to conduct vision screenings for elementary students in their communities.
“Without question, Jimmy’s life leaves behind a lasting legacy—an example for all of us to follow.”
According to friend George Boring, the Antioch Chamber of Commerce will be honoring Jimmy with the Citizen of the Year for Lifetime Achievement Award at their annual Gala on March 28, 2025.
A celebration of the life and times of Jimmy Bean was held on Feb. 8, 2025, at the VFW Hall in Antioch. In lieu of flowers, donations can go to the Antioch Lions Club, P.O. Box 324, Antioch, CA 94509.
Founder and Director of Mau Loa Ohana dance studio in Antioch, Monique Castaneda’s love of life and personal relationship with God didn’t come to an end with her death. Monique passed away on November 23, 2024, at the age of 58 after a courageous fight with Polymyositis and B Cell Lymphoma, surrounded by loved ones who will continue to honor her legacy of sharing the Aloha Spirit and living their lives to the fullest.
Monique was born on May 5, 1966 in Oakland, California, graduated from Presentation High School in Berkeley and worked at Wells Fargo Bank retiring at an early age to be a full-time mother.
Monique lived a purpose driven life by uplifting those in need through dance and was a disciple for Christ sharing her love for God through praise and dance. She founded the annual “Hula Away The Cancer Ho’ike” in 2010 to fundraise for The American Cancer Society, Relay for Life and St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital donating thousands of dollars for cancer research.
Her final show was held on October 12, 2024, at Antioch’s El Campanil Theatre.
Monique’s passions were her love for God, family, fashion, fitness, travel and Mau Loa Ohana. Her loving personality was contagious to everyone she met. The hula studio was her happy place and those that Walked-In, Hula-Out with the Aloha Spirit.
Monique is survived by her loving husband, Raul; daughters Alexsandra and Kiana; son-in-law Gregory; grandson Oliver; Sisters Joyce and Tina; and many cousins, nieces and nephews.
Barbara Sobalvarro with one of her beloved cats. Photo courtesy of Antioch Friends of Animal Services
Local former city officials offer their memories of the advocate for pets
“Her greatest wish was that all people would responsibly raise their pets, and any strays would be adopted. Barbara wanted everyone to love and care for an animal.” – former Antioch Mayor and councilman-elect Don Freitas
By Allen D. Payton
The Antioch Friends of Animal Services is mourning the passing of its founder, Barbara Sobalvarro, today. In a post on the group’s Facebook page on Saturday, Nov. 9, 2024, they wrote, “It is with great sorrow we share with you the passing of our Founder, Honorary President and Cherished Friend, Barbara Sobalvarro.
Barbara’s remarkable legacy leaves an enduring impact on our hearts and we extend our most heartfelt condolences to her family, friends, the community and the cherished animals she devoted her life to saving.
‘Seldom does a heart feel better, than when you save the life of one of our animal friends’ Barbara Sobalvarro
Aug 18, 1941- Nov 6, 2024
We’ll share more about Barbara in the coming days. As you can imagine, we need some time to process this profound and unexpected loss.
Please consider saving a life at Antioch Animal Services in her memory………”
Founded in 1979 following the passage of the City’s advisory measure in 1978, in which “the citizens of Antioch voted overwhelmingly in favor of maintaining a local animal services program and became unique in Contra Costa County in this regard. Soon after this election, the Friends of Animal Services was formed for the express purpose of guaranteeing the people of Antioch a humane and comprehensive Animal Services program with an emphasis on a quality Animal Shelter and maximum responsible adoptions of animals,” according to the group’s website.
As a result, Antioch is the only city of the 19 in the county to operate its own animal shelter.
“From its political beginnings, the Friends has enriched the Animal Services program for nearly twenty years through fund-raising, education, volunteer efforts, community events, and even beautification of the shelter and its surrounding grounds and—of course, through its continuing monitoring of local government!” said Sobalvarro about her organization.
It became a powerful organization that successfully blocked efforts to cut the budget for and close the Antioch Animal Services and shelter and give the responsibility back to the County.
Former Antioch Mayor, and recently elected District 3 council candidate, Don Freitas, a long-time friend of Sobalvarro and supporter said, “Barbara was an extraordinary advocate for the humane treatment of animals. She was able to politically weaponize the support of many in the community. She was a power to reckon with.”
“One of her biggest focuses was the successful creation of the Antioch Animal Services and shelter,” he added. “I’m actually kind of shocked. She was such a part of Antioch for the past three decades, it’s hard to believe she has passed. Her greatest wish was that all people would responsibly raise their pets, and any strays would be adopted. Barbara wanted everyone to love and care for an animal.”
About Sobalvarro former Mayor Joel Keller said, “She was a dedicated community member who loved animals and worked hard to ensure their safety and well-being.”
About the animal shelter he said, “We did put a funding stream toward it,” referring to three percent of the City’s 10 percent Transient Occupancy Tax on hotel and motel stays in Antioch.
Former Mayor Pro Tem and Councilman Manny Soliz also offered his thoughts on Sobalvarro’s passing. “This is a great loss for Animal Services and me personally,” he shared. “I had a long, personal relationship with her and her late husband Estuardo. I’m very sad, but grateful for having been friends with her.”
Learn more about Antioch Friends of Animal Services on their website.
Sobalvarro was also a piano teacher and could be seen performing her music at the Lone Tree Golf and Event Center during brunch on Sundays, and at other events in the community.
Christopher Nazir, aged 51, passed away peacefully in his home surrounded by his loved ones on September 25, 2024, in Brentwood, California. Christopher remained strong in his faith and optimism throughout his three years of undergoing extensive chemotherapy.
Born on June 20, 1973, in Karachi, Pakistan, Christopher was a beacon of positivity and selflessness, widely recognized as a pillar of his community. A successful entrepreneur, Christopher owned and operated three thriving restaurants; Mehran Restaurant in Pittsburg, Bawarchi’s Restaurant and Bar in Antioch and Zaiqa in Hercules.
His charisma and unwavering work ethic were instrumental in his professional success, earning him the respect and admiration of his colleagues and customers alike. Christopher’s passion to live life extended beyond his professional endeavors. He was a sports fan, particularly of the San Francisco 49ers and Golden State Warriors. He enjoyed going for drives with his family and traveling the world. Known for his culinary skills, he loved cooking and often hosted parties that brought together his extensive circle of family and friends.
He is survived by his loving wife, Anita Nazir; his sons, Nathan, Ryan and Brandon Nazir; his mother, Irshad Nazir; his father, Nazir Masih; his four siblings; Christina Shakeel, Matthew Nazir, Edith Albert, and Sabrina Cullup; and his Father in-law, William Kashu. Christopher’s legacy of kindness, generosity, and dedication to his family and community will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew him.
Service will be held on September 14, 2024, at the Antioch Seventh Day Adventist Church
Joseph (Gene) Eugene Zimmerman, M.D. was born on January 20, 1928, in Ferris, OK. Gene breathed his last breath on August 28, 2024, at his home in Antioch, CA. He was preceded in death by his wife Esther J. Zimmerman, father Edward F. Zimmerman, and his mother Orpha H. Eberly.
Gene met his future wife Esther Hofstar while at Southwestern Adventist College and they were married on August 29, 1948. Gene served with his wife as missionaries in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia from 1961-1966. Gene founded Antioch Medical Park and operated his medical practice there from 1973-2015.
Gene, along with his wife, supported numerous missionary projects in Bolivia & other countries. He was a strong supporter of his beloved Antioch Seventh-day Adventist church and Hilltop Christian School. He is survived by his 3 sons David E. Zimmerman of Antioch, CA, Edward A. Zimmerman of Colville, WA, Daniel L. Zimmerman of Penn Valley, CA and his daughter, Ellen M. Amador (Zimmerman) of Cottonwood, CA.
His funeral service will be held on September 14, 2024, at 3:00 p.m. at the Antioch SDA Church located at 2200 Country Hills Drive, Antioch CA 94509.
Darryl Ross Corzine, 64, husband, dad, brother, grandfather, uncle and friend passed away on August 24, 2024.
Darryl was born December 14, 1959, in Walnut Creek, California to Leroy and Lucille Corzine. He spent his life growing up in Antioch with his sister Letha Arms. He graduated from Antioch High, where he played football, in 1978. Darryl was a drummer and traveled some to play music. Darryl worked at San Ramon Valley school district in Logistics where he made friends for life.
Darryl loved the Raiders and Giants, passionately even when they were losing. His other passions of course were hunting, fishing and diving, which he could never get enough of.
On October 31, 2003 he married his wife, Geri and instantly became a father of 3 children, Denise Gaunt (husband Mike), Jason McCoy (wife Julie) and Tommy McCoy (wife Corey). He also enjoyed his abundance of friends, his life with them were very important.
Barbecuing, any cooking, and Dinner Club were also a passion.
Darryl leaves behind his wife, children, 5 grandchildren: Lexi, Zac, Giana, Quinn and Jaci, a new great grandson on his way, two nieces, Lauren and Lindsey and his dog, Roxie.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Leroy and Lucille Corzine.
Darryl will be deeply missed by his children and wife.
Private services will be held for family and friends.
