JEANNETTE LOVED HER GRANDPA

I grew up in the small town of Corcoran, California.  It is in the San Joaquin Valley and in the state of California.  My foundation was built in the town with cotton fields all around.  It is the town where I had my first kiss and probably will have my last, where I know every inch of the town.  I know the families who own the businesses and which dogs live on which streets.  Nothing huge happens in Corcoran and yet I rank my hometown as the most interesting place I know.  I have my dear dad living on Dairy Avenue.  In a house he and mom bought back in the early 70's.  He is now a widower and fortunately, my nephew and niece live there with him.  I am glad he is not alone.  I live in Fresno, which is 50 miles away but if anything should happen, I can be there in less than a half hour. 

Richard Balderama

Every weekend during the formative years of Jeannette's life, we would go to Corcoran.  She was such a joy to all the family.  My mother would take her to church with her and Jeannette would come back home talking non stop about her  time in church.  We would also take her to the local hamburger stand called, "The Jolly Cone."  Sometimes, we would take her to the park and let her run around until she came back to announce to us that she wanted to "Go Home Now."

She loved her Grandpa and Grandma.  During her last days on this earth, she cried out for them.  She wanted prayer.  My dad prayed for her with all his might.